Lori'S Quick Casserole
A quick and hearty casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melty cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and adaptable with various cheese options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper; drain.
- Cook macaroni and drain.
- Combine cooked beef, macaroni, whole tomatoes, tomato paste, and chopped vegetables in a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-cooked ground beef or canned vegetables. If you're out of macaroni, any pasta shape works well, or even rice for a twist. To add more veggies, consider including frozen peas or corn. You can also substitute the cheese with a blend or use dairy-free options if needed. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to fit your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Applesauce Meatballs for a family-friendly dinner. For a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. This comforting dish is great for potlucks and weeknight dinners alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through, or cover the casserole with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed. You can add a splash of water if it seems dry during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lori'S Quick Casserole contains roughly 647 calories, with 22g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (171% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% 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 refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP), which will still give you a satisfying texture.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle some pepper jack cheese on top for an extra kick.
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).