Marilyn Mcconnell'S Beef Casserole
A hearty beef casserole with creamy noodles, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the browned hamburger, garlic salt, chopped onion, and tomato sauce in a large pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- Combine the cooked noodles, softened cream cheese, and sour cream; stir into the meat sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a deep, greased casserole dish.
- Top with drained mushrooms and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or substituting ground turkey for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt with the sour cream. This casserole can be made ahead of time, similar to Polly'S Noodle Dish, and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this beef casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Soupy Chili for a hearty dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for the best texture, the oven method is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marilyn Mcconnell'S Beef Casserole contains roughly 877 calories, with 28g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), and protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1437mg per serving (62% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites to enhance the flavor profile.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra kick.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or a mix of lentils and mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
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).