Main Dish Vegetable Casserole
A hearty vegetable casserole combining tender potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions layered with seasoned ground beef, all baked in a savory tomato and pea liquid. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, offering rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the liquid from the can of peas with the can of tomato soup in a bowl and set aside.
- Slice the potatoes, carrots, and onions; drain the peas and cut into pieces.
- Layer the sliced vegetables and peas in a casserole dish.
- Brown the hamburger and spread it over the layered vegetables.
- Pour the soup and pea liquid mixture over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake for 1.5 hours at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a layer of shredded cheese between the vegetables and the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you don't have tomato soup, try using a can of diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning instead. Make sure to cut your vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty vegetable casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw. You can also offer a side of garlic bread for an extra touch. It's a comforting dish that works well for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Main Dish Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 1206 calories, with 31g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), and potassium (83% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1100mg per serving (48% 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 a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of hamburger?
You can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner meats may require less time to cook.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly. This is a versatile dish that can adapt to whatever you have on hand.
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).