Johnny M Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining seasoned ground beef, macaroni, corn, and sharp Cheddar, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan over moderate heat, brown the ground beef until crumbly.
- Stir in the Sloppy Joe seasoning mix, tomato paste, and water.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water according to package directions until tender; drain.
- Stir the cooked macaroni, drained corn, and 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese into the meat mixture.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. To enhance the flavors, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with recipes like Pork Stroganoff for a comforting dinner. You can also top it with sliced green onions or serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave until heated through, or re-bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny M Casserole contains roughly 250 calories, with 15g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 3g 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 all the ingredients and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of Sloppy Joe mix?
If you don't have Sloppy Joe mix, you can create a similar flavor by mixing together chili powder, paprika, onion powder, and a bit of brown sugar. This will give you a homemade seasoning blend that works well in this casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, 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).