Jiffy Macaroni And Cheese Casserole
A hearty baked macaroni and cheese casserole with savory ground meat, creamy mushroom soup, and rich flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet; drain any excess grease.
- Add the beef bouillon cubes and chopped onion to the meat.
- Add 1 cup of water and cook until the onion is tender and the bouillon cubes are dissolved.
- Continue cooking until all the water has evaporated.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup.
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese following the directions on the box.
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the meat and soup mixture.
- Add a little milk if the mixture is too thick.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake in a hot oven at 400°F until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables or beans. You can also use low-sodium soup and broth for a healthier dish. Pair this with a side salad to balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, topped with shredded cheese for extra indulgence. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish complements a side of garlic bread or even goes well with a sweet treat like German Chocolate Brownies for dessert. It's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
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 loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jiffy Macaroni And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 408 calories, with 37g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 14g 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 ahead of time. Assemble it as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of ground meat works best for this recipe?
While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Each choice will alter the flavor profile slightly, but all will yield a delicious casserole.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions for a few minutes before adding to the casserole mixture.
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).