Deans Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining ground beef, spaghetti, and creamy soups, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and drain.
- Cook spaghetti until almost done.
- Mix cooked spaghetti with cream of chicken, Cheddar cheese, tomato soup, and cream of celery soup.
- Combine the mixture with the cooked hamburger.
- Pour into a casserole dish and bake until bubbly and hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting sour cream or Greek yogurt for the cream of chicken. You can also use ground turkey or chicken in place of hamburger for a lighter option. If you want to add some vegetables, mix in steamed broccoli or bell peppers. To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning. This dish is a great way to use up leftover spaghetti or even some shredded cheese you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Deans Casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Vicki'S Favorite Potato Soup for a hearty dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deans Casserole contains roughly 1057 calories, with 46g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (93% of the Daily Value), calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Deans Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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 soup or even a homemade white sauce. To make a simple white sauce, combine butter, flour, and milk, whisking until thickened, then add seasonings to taste.
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).