Marilyn Mcconnell'S Meat Casserole
A hearty meat casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, topped with mushrooms and melted cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the hamburger.
- Mix the hamburger, garlic salt, chopped onion, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper in a pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the noodles and drain.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked noodles, softened cream cheese, and sour cream.
- Stir the noodle mixture into the meat sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with drained mushrooms and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 300°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion until translucent before adding it to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you don't have cream cheese, a similar amount of ricotta or cottage cheese can work well. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. A dollop of sour cream on top can enhance the flavors even more. Explore more American recipes for a variety of comforting dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marilyn Mcconnell'S Meat Casserole contains roughly 727 calories, with 29g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1514mg per serving (66% 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 on top?
Absolutely! While grated Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just ensure the cheese melts well to create a gooey topping.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble everything in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time and check for doneness before serving.
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).