Green Pea Macaroni Casserole
A hearty casserole combining macaroni, hamburger, peas, and cheese, baked to bubbly perfection—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and cool the elbow macaroni.
- Beat the egg and mix it with the cooked macaroni and cheese, then pat the mixture into a 10-inch pie shell.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes, then remove and cool.
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet, then add the Sloppy Joe mix, chopped tomatoes, and frozen peas; cook until heated through.
- Put the macaroni mixture into the pie shell with the hamburger mixture.
- Top with 2 slices of cheese and bake at 450°F until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the macaroni mixture before baking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with cooked lentils or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to enhance the flavor. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Green Pea Macaroni Casserole with a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with T'S Ham Steak for a heartier option. For a quick meal, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread or steamed vegetables. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a comforting and filling option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, on medium power until hot. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Pea Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 458 calories, with 15g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 566mg per serving (25% 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 a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta types may require varying cooking durations.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that the Sloppy Joe mix and any other ingredients are gluten-free. This makes the casserole accessible for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, 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 allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).