Elizabeth'S Casserole
Elizabeth's Casserole is a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish with ground beef, vegetables, and crispy onion rings, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain.
- Add ground beef, mushroom soup, tomatoes, green pepper, and mushrooms to the macaroni and mix well.
- Spread half of the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spread the remaining mixture over the cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese and the can of onion rings.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you want to make it healthier, substitute ground turkey for beef and use whole wheat macaroni. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a twist, try adding some spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Paul Lynde'S Stew for a hearty dinner option. For a family-friendly gathering, consider offering a selection of sides like steamed vegetables or coleslaw to complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elizabeth'S Casserole contains roughly 512 calories, with 25g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 818mg per serving (36% 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. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time until it's bubbly and hot.
Can I freeze Elizabeth's casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make your own by combining a mixture of cream, chicken or vegetable broth, and some sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce can also work well as a substitute for mushroom soup, providing a creamy base without the preservatives.
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).