Last Minute Casserole
A quick and hearty casserole featuring ground beef, macaroni, and cheese, perfect for weeknights and satisfying a family craving for comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; season with salt and pepper.
- Drain excess fat from the beef and add chopped onions.
- Mix in water, tomato sauce, diced cheese, uncooked macaroni, and drained corn.
- Toss all ingredients together to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a large 2 1/2 or 3-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or your favorite spices to the beef while browning. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken or turkey. To save on dishes, mix everything in one pot before transferring to the baking dish. This Last Minute Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs nicely with a simple side salad.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw. It’s also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to other comforting American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Last Minute Casserole contains roughly 510 calories, with 24g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2008mg per serving (87% 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 use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option. You can also substitute with cooked sausage for added flavor. Just ensure that any alternative meat is properly cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its melting quality and flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella for a creamier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the combination you love!
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).