Marsha'S Casserole
Marsha's Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish combining seasoned ground beef, flavorful spaghetti sauce, tender noodles, and velvety cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of savory and cheesy flavors that satisfy all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the hamburger meat and drain.
- Add spaghetti sauce, sugar, and cream of mushroom soup to the meat.
- Cook the mixture for 10 minutes on medium heat.
- Pour the cooked noodles and sauce into a casserole dish.
- Add Velveeta cheese all over the casserole.
- Cut the casserole into 1-inch strips.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic and onion with the hamburger meat. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute or omitting it entirely, as the spaghetti sauce adds sweetness. For a creamier texture, mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the mushroom soup. You can also swap elbow noodles for any pasta of your choice to vary the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish on its own but pairs well with a fresh side salad like Olive Macaroni Salad or Cindy'S Layered Salad for a balanced meal. Serve with garlic bread or a light vegetable side for a complete dinner. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months; just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marsha'S Casserole contains roughly 470 calories, with 14g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the hamburger meat with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat used.
What can I do if I don't have Velveeta cheese?
If Velveeta cheese isn't available, you can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or mozzarella. This will provide a similar creamy texture, although the flavor will vary slightly. Aim for about 8 ounces of cheese for the best results.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Prepare it up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This way, you'll have a quick meal ready to go!
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).