Company Casserole (Meat Casserole)
A hearty meat casserole featuring ground beef, tomato sauces, noodles, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions in a skillet.
- Add chili powder, salt, pepper, and Mrs. Dash to the beef mixture.
- Mix in both cans of herb-flavored tomato sauce, the can of tomato soup with a little water, and the can of peas or corn.
- Add cooked noodles to the mixture and combine well.
- Place the mixture into casserole dishes.
- Top with slices of Longhorn Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 1 hour until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you're out of herb-flavored tomato sauce, substitute with regular tomato sauce mixed with Italian seasoning. To lighten the dish, use ground turkey instead of beef. This casserole also works well with leftover cooked vegetables, making it versatile for using up pantry items.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and you can even try pairing it with sides like coleslaw or roasted potatoes to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Casserole (Meat Casserole) contains roughly 340 calories, with 22g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1157mg per serving (50% 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 store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is it possible to freeze Company Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a bit more time if needed.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute product, ensuring to adjust seasoning to taste. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious casserole while accommodating different dietary preferences.
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).