Manwich Casserole
A hearty, flavor-packed casserole combining savory ground beef, tangy Manwich sauce, and cheesy layers, baked to perfection. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers comforting flavors with a crispy topping of cheese and ketchup, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until done and brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Add cooked macaroni, Manwich, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the ground beef.
- In a casserole dish, layer the mixture with strips of cheese.
- Cover the top with ketchup.
- Bake uncovered in the oven until bubbly, approximately 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers when browning the ground beef. You can substitute the macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, or even use whole grain pasta for a healthier option. If you like a bit of spice, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover ground beef from other dishes like Ground Beef and Beans.
Serving Suggestions
This Manwich Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. For an American twist, serve it with pickles or coleslaw on the side. It’s perfect for casual gatherings and can be a great option for busy weeknight meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply 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 the oven will help retain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manwich Casserole contains roughly 365 calories, with 17g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 825mg per serving (36% 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. Just assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. You could also try using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy variation. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different meats.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for added flavor. This will give you a delicious vegetarian version of the casserole while keeping the overall essence of the dish.
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).