Ground Meat, Macaroni And Cheese Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground meat, tender macaroni, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a flavorful, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
- During the last 5 minutes, sprinkle with shredded cheese and continue baking until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you have extra vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, feel free to mix them in for added nutrition. For a twist, try using different types of cheese in addition to the shredded cheese at the end.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken In The Blanket, making for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Meat, Macaroni And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 536 calories, with 39g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and bake it within 24 hours. If you want to make it further in advance, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can substitute with Homemade Cream Of Mushroom Soup for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can work as a creamy base, maintaining the casserole's texture and taste without the canned soup.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even diced ham for varied flavors. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, since some proteins may add saltiness. This flexibility makes it a great base for experimenting with different chicken recipes.
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).