First Base Casserole
A comforting casserole combining vegetables, mayonnaise, and stuffing, topped with cheese. Perfect for a hearty family meal or potluck, especially when served with chicken.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix drained Veg-All, chopped onions, chopped celery, mayonnaise, and Pepperidge Farm stuffing together in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Top with cheese slices (American singles or shredded mild Cheddar).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture before baking. If you want to lighten it up, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. Feel free to use fresh vegetables in place of the canned Veg-All, such as peas or green beans. To enhance flavor, add herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish to balance the flavors. For a comforting side dish, try pairing it with Scalloped Potato Casserole (Makes 10 Servings) for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of First Base Casserole contains roughly 912 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 949mg per serving (41% 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 overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What type of cheese works best on top?
American singles melt beautifully and provide a creamy texture, but shredded mild Cheddar is also a great option for a sharper flavor. You can even mix different cheeses for a more complex taste.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, always check your stuffing mix to ensure it doesn't contain any animal products if you are strictly adhering to a vegetarian diet.
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).