Company Best Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, baked to bubbly perfection—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef in a heavy skillet until all red disappears.
- Add chopped onion, canned tomatoes, catsup, steak sauce, chopped green pepper, and parsley. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and pour into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Gently spoon cream of mushroom soup into the mixture, mixing lightly from the bottom.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can save you a step. This casserole can also be customized with different vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for a twist. Browse more American recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You can also offer a side of pickles or coleslaw for added crunch. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Best Casserole contains roughly 263 calories, with 17g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of chicken soup. For a lighter option, consider a vegetable broth mixed with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just assemble it without the cheese, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then top with cheese before baking as directed.
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).