Debbie'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, green beans, noodles, and melted cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a heavy skillet, melt margarine and brown ground beef with chopped onions, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Heat mushroom soup slightly.
- Grate the American cheese.
- Drain green beans.
- Layer green beans, noodles, grated cheese, cooked meat, and mushroom soup in a 12 x 9-inch casserole dish in that order.
- Top with a little grated cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated.
- If refrigerated, bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mushroom soup before layering. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey for ground beef. You can also use other types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella instead of American cheese, which will add a different flavor profile. Feel free to add some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier option, consider serving with a side of mashed potatoes or the classic Three Meat Baked Beans. This dish is filling on its own but can be complemented with a light dessert like fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debbie'S Casserole contains roughly 726 calories, with 6g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 this casserole ahead of time. After assembling it, cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What kind of noodles are best for this recipe?
You can use various types of noodles for this casserole. Egg noodles work great due to their texture, but you can also use rotini or penne for a different bite. Just ensure they're cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. You could also use a mix of meats for added flavor. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a meat substitute to achieve a similar texture.
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).