Macaroni And Meat Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining macaroni, ground meat, creamy soup, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile for various meat options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed; drain.
- Cook ground beef or sausage and chopped onion until lightly browned.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Combine cooked meat and onion with cream of celery soup, beaten eggs, milk, and shredded cheese.
- Add cooked macaroni to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or chicken soup can be great substitutes. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage for a leaner option. To achieve a crispier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread can complement it beautifully. For a hearty dinner, consider pairing it with dishes like Granny'S Chuck Wagon Chili, which enhances the comfort food experience. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Meat Casserole contains roughly 1181 calories, with 17g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 863mg per serving (38% 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 in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, any good melting cheese will work, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorites. For a stronger flavor, consider using pepper jack cheese, which adds a bit of spice to the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onion before combining with the other ingredients to ensure they are tender.
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).