Eat More Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, pasta, corn, and beans, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and those craving comfort food with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a large skillet.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain macaroni and combine it with the cooked hamburger.
- Add chopped onion, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Accent, and taco seasoning.
- Gently fold in corn and beans.
- Transfer the mixture to a 1 1/2-quart buttered casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier meal, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet while browning the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape will work. Experiment with different varieties of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, such as Layered Chef'S Salad. For a touch of heat, serve with Jalapeno Pepper Appetizers. Top each serving with shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, microwaving in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eat More Casserole contains roughly 543 calories, with 23g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1624mg per serving (71% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces to maintain flavor without the meat.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread for a delightful, hearty combination.
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).