Easy, Any Meat Casserole
A comforting casserole combining pasta, diced meat, peas, and melted cheeses, perfect for a hearty family meal or a casual gathering with versatile protein options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cooked macaroni, diced meat, peas, grated Cheddar cheese, and diced onion.
- Combine cream of mushroom soup and milk in a separate bowl.
- Add the soup mixture to the macaroni mixture and stir well.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and paprika on top of the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Leave at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
- Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or Italian seasoning in the casserole mixture. You can substitute the meat with leftover roast pork barbecue or even a mix of different meats for variety. If you want a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad like cheese 'n broccoli salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. It also makes for an excellent dish to serve at potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy, Any Meat Casserole contains roughly 389 calories, with 16g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% 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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pastas may require varying amounts of time to cook. The key is to ensure the pasta is al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! To freeze, prepare the dish as directed but skip the baking step. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What can I do if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts of cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, you can use a cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it has a similar creamy consistency.
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).