Fandango
A hearty spinach and beef casserole with creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings with rich flavors and cheesy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the fat.
- Add chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, garlic, and oregano to the beef and sauté a bit longer.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart flat casserole dish.
- Stir in the thawed and drained chopped spinach, cream of celery soup, sour cream, raw rice, salt, and pepper.
- Lay cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you want a lighter version, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. If you prefer a gluten-free option, ensure the cream of celery soup is gluten-free or make your own using cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For an added crunch, serve with homemade garlic bread. You can also complement it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. It also makes a great main course for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fandango contains roughly 826 calories, with 37g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (95% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and protein (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2104mg per serving (91% 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 spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted before adding it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using heavy cream, sautéed celery, and a bit of flour for thickening. This will maintain the creamy texture of the dish.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
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).