Favorite Casserole
A comforting casserole combining ground beef, macaroni, and creamy tomato soup, topped with grated cheese and Parmesan. Rich in flavors and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Combine cooked ground beef, macaroni, tomato soup, cream of mushroom, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt in a large casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also substitute the canned tomato soup with homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste. If you want to increase the veggie content, add chopped bell peppers or spinach to the casserole. This dish is versatile, much like the Cheese Chile Casserole Dish, allowing for various ingredient swaps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or coleslaw for extra crunch. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Beef Noodle, creating a comforting dinner spread that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Casserole contains roughly 773 calories, with 38g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (180% of the Daily Value), protein (75% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of celery soup. Both options provide a creamy texture and flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).