Creole Casserole
A hearty Creole casserole blending ground beef, vegetables, and savory tomato-mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place half of the ground beef in the bottom of a shallow, greased casserole dish.
- Cover with half of the sliced carrots, celery, onions, and green pepper rings.
- Sprinkle with half of the basil, pepper, and salt.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings.
- Top with the can of mushrooms.
- Mix the tomato soup with the liquid from the mushroom can and mushroom juice.
- Pour the mixture over all the ingredients in the casserole.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced tomatoes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to suit your taste. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Creole Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside Dwain'S Rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Casserole contains roughly 442 calories, with 17g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you're looking for a leaner option. It will still provide a good base for the casserole, and you can season it similarly to maintain flavor. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before layering it in the dish.
What can I use if I don't have tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with a can of crushed tomatoes mixed with a teaspoon of sugar and some seasoning. Alternatively, homemade tomato sauce or even marinara sauce can work well, though you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the Creole Casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then cook 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).