Kim Brown'S Crunchy Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender beef, creamy mushroom sauce, cheesy pasta, and crunchy onion rings, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the ground beef.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
- Combine all ingredients except the French fried onion rings.
- Pour half of the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add half of the onion rings on top of the mixture.
- Add the remaining beef mixture over the onion rings.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover, top with remaining onion rings, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some cooked mushrooms or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option. If you're short on time, pre-cooked pasta can be used instead of fresh. For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cyndi'S Baked Beans for a hearty gathering. You could also offer a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kim Brown'S Crunchy Beef Casserole contains roughly 576 calories, with 24g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1899mg per serving (83% 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 up to the baking step and cover it tightly. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or use a different cream soup, such as cream of chicken or celery. This will still provide the creamy texture needed for the casserole.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a suitable dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It should be consumed within 2-3 months for optimal quality.
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).