Chili Beef Casserole
Chili Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of chili beef soup and tomato soup with tender macaroni. Topped with melted American cheese, it's perfect for family dinners or gatherings, satisfying both adults and kids with its savory goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until done, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the soups and the macaroni to the skillet.
- Heat the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bubbly.
- Slice cheese slices in half diagonally and place on top of the hot mixture. Cover for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Serve at once.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions and bell peppers while browning the ground beef. You can substitute the processed American cheese with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you want to make it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish is a great way to use up leftover cooked macaroni from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili beef casserole with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Carrie'S Cabbage Soup for a comforting meal. You can also top it with sour cream or fresh cilantro for added freshness. This is a hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Be sure to cover it to prevent drying out while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Beef Casserole contains roughly 299 calories, with 17g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 994mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the point of adding cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply heat it in the oven until bubbly and top with cheese to melt.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like penne or shells. You could also use cooked rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if using a different type of pasta.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like corn, diced tomatoes, or even spinach. Just sauté them with the ground beef or mix them in with the soups for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).