Country Fair Casserole
A comforting casserole combining macaroni, ground beef, peas, and creamy soup, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain well.
- Combine ground beef, onions, salt, and pepper in a heavy skillet, stirring to crumble.
- Saute until lightly browned.
- Drain off pan drippings.
- Stir in cream of celery soup, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, drained peas, and sour cream.
- Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra 4 oz. of sour cream or even some cream cheese. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you want to add more veggies, try incorporating diced bell peppers or mushrooms, which pair nicely with the flavors in this casserole. For a spicy kick, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Southern Goulash for a comforting dinner spread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Fair Casserole contains roughly 190 calories, with 12g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 963mg per serving (42% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup. You can also make a homemade version by combining equal parts milk, sour cream, and a bit of cornstarch, seasoned with celery salt for flavor.
Can I freeze the Country Fair Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake 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).