Greco
Greco is a hearty and comforting casserole that combines ground beef, pasta, and a medley of vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying meal that pleases both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef.
- Add onion and green pepper. Add can of mushrooms.
- Cook macaroni as directed, then drain and add to meat mixture.
- Add tomato sauce and corn.
- Mix well and place in a 2-quart casserole.
- Cover with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 300° for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter substitution for the beef. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the dish's taste. If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. To save time, pre-cooked macaroni can be used; just reduce the baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Greco hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side of Corn Bread Casserole to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of red wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Greco can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered, for about 20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greco contains roughly 348 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Greco a day in advance. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the tomato sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the tomato sauce with diced tomatoes, tomato paste mixed with water, or even a homemade marinara sauce. For a richer taste, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce before baking.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Greco freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave until warm.
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).