Macaroni-Kidney Bean Casserole
A hearty casserole blending pasta, kidney beans, fresh vegetables, and crispy bacon, topped with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs—perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted water; drain.
- In large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chopped onion, tomato juice, fried bacon and drippings.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Dot the top with butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until crumbs are slightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Make sure to adjust the salt, as bacon can add significant sodium.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious casserole with a side salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with garlic bread for a comforting touch. It also goes well with the flavors of Bonnie'S Broccoli Salad to add a fresh contrast. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a hearty family dinner any night of the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warm all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni-Kidney Bean Casserole contains roughly 586 calories, with 27g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 729mg per serving (32% 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 pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type, ensuring it's al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. You might also consider serving it alongside Ethella'S Meat Loaf for a hearty meal option that everyone will enjoy.
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).