Meat Jamboree
A hearty baked pasta casserole combining savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chopped onions and pepper in Crisco, then add ground beef and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add tomato soup and water to the meat mixture and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Place 1 cup of cooked elbow macaroni in a casserole dish.
- Add a layer of the meat mixture over the macaroni, then add a layer of cheese.
- Add a second layer of macaroni, followed by the remaining meat mixture and cheese.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. You can also add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra depth. If you have leftover cooked vegetables, feel free to mix them in for added nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of other comforting American recipes, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Meat Jamboree with a side salad or some crusty bread to balance the hearty flavors. It pairs beautifully with Warm Vegetable Dip for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a light dessert like fruit salad or pudding after this rich dish. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes for a crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Jamboree contains roughly 226 calories, with 11g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2175mg per serving (95% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and layer it with the macaroni, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to adjust the baking time, as it may take a bit longer to cook from cold.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, a combination of diced tomatoes and a bit of broth or a homemade tomato sauce can work well. You can also blend canned tomatoes with some seasonings and a touch of sugar to mimic the sweetness of tomato soup.
Is it possible to freeze the Meat Jamboree?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
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).