Frankfurter Macaroni Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring frankfurters, macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large, heavy skillet or saucepan.
- Add chopped onions and green pepper, cook over low heat until tender.
- Add condensed tomato soup and stir until blended.
- Mix flour with a little of the milk to form a smooth paste.
- Add remaining milk, mixing thoroughly.
- Pour the milk mixture into the soup mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat.
- Add sliced frankfurters and cooked elbow macaroni, stirring just until blended.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the sauce before mixing in the frankfurters and macaroni. You can also substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit any taste preferences, making it great for families.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mum'S Lemon Pudding for dessert, adding a refreshing finish to your dinner. For a casual gathering, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warm, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frankfurter Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 600 calories, with 36g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (152% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1722mg per serving (75% 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 ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of frankfurters?
You can easily substitute frankfurters with cooked diced chicken, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian hot dogs for a meatless option. This flexibility allows you to tailor the casserole to your dietary preferences, making it suitable for various tastes.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).