Macaroni And Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining tender macaroni, savory ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with cheese for a comforting family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Brown chopped onions, green pepper, and ground beef in a skillet with a small amount of fat until fully cooked.
- Add undiluted cream of mushroom soup to the skillet and mix well.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni, sliced mushrooms, and chopped black olives.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also enhance the dish with spices like paprika or garlic powder. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in some sour cream or cream cheese. Feel free to use other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to customize the recipe to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, serve it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls. You might also enjoy it with a side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 468 calories, with 13g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (99% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 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 with homemade white sauce or use cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, consider using a blend of sour cream and chicken broth for a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze the macaroni and ground beef casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble it completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator 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).