Dried Beef And Chicken Casserole
A hearty casserole combining dried beef, tender chicken wrapped in bacon, and creamy mushroom flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 small jar of dried beef in the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Wrap pieces of chicken breast with raw bacon and place them in the dish on top of the dried beef.
- Pour 1 can of undiluted cream of mushroom soup over the chicken and dried beef.
- Optional: Drain and add mushrooms on top of the soup.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 300° for 2 hours.
- Increase oven temperature to 350° and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, still covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute turkey bacon or omit it altogether. You can also replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or a different cream soup for a twist. Adding garlic or onions can enhance the taste and complement the dried beef well.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with Aunt Bess' Potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It makes for an excellent dish to serve during family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Beef And Chicken Casserole contains roughly 100 calories, with 7g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% 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 fresh chicken instead of dried beef?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cooked chicken for dried beef if you prefer. Just ensure that it's cooked through before adding it to the casserole. You may need to adjust the seasoning to account for the different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade cream soup or substitute with any cream soup you prefer, like cream of chicken or even cream of celery, for a different flavor. Just make sure it’s undiluted for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
For a vegetarian version, replace the dried beef with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute like tempeh. Use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream of mushroom soup to keep it hearty and flavorful.
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).