Hide The Meat
A hearty, cheesy casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet, brown the hamburger lightly and remove excess fat. Chop the celery, carrots, bell pepper, onion, and canned tomatoes.
- Add all ingredients to the skillet except the cheese and V-8 juice.
- Saute until the onions appear transparent.
- Stir in the V-8 juice.
- Cover and steam for 3 to 5 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the mixture.
- Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or spices like cumin alongside the chili powder. If you want to reduce the meatiness, you can substitute half of the hamburger with black beans or lentils. To enhance the dish, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth. You can also replace the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of crispy cornbread for a delightful contrast in texture. A simple green salad can also complement the richness of the meal nicely. For added flair, top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices. Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to prevent drying out, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hide The Meat contains roughly 516 calories, with 14g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (257% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1801mg per serving (78% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and substituting with a mix of beans, lentils, or even textured vegetable protein (TVP). This will still provide a satisfying texture and protein content, making it a great option for those who prefer plant-based meals.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its melting properties and flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. You can also use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile, ensuring it melts well over the dish.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of V-8 juice can help maintain moisture during reheating.
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).