Heather Heffner'S Reunion Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, Italian sausage, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection—perfect for family dinners and gatherings craving comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 lb. bulk Italian sausage ⓘ
- 1 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 c. shredded cheese, divided ⓘ
- 1 green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (12 oz.) can corn, drained ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/3 c. sliced black olives ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 8 oz. wide noodles, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can tomato soup ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, chopped green pepper, drained corn, tomato soup, tomato sauce, sliced black olives, minced garlic, and cooked noodles. Mix well.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and pour the mixture into it.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also swap out the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the dish. Ensure the noodles are al dente as they will continue to cook in the oven, similar to the approach used in Beef Bean Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional sliced olives for a pop of color. A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish, making it a complete meal. This casserole also works perfectly for potlucks or family gatherings, much like Cheese Burger Pie, where it can be enjoyed by a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heather Heffner'S Reunion Casserole contains roughly 301 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 25g 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. For a different flavor profile, feta or goat cheese can work well. Just ensure any substitute melts nicely for the best texture.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).