"Miss" Lonnie Mae'S Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty ground beef casserole with creamy mushroom and tomato flavors, topped with cheese and crispy fried onion rings, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and bell peppers until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Mix mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, tomatoes, grated cheese, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Add the meat mixture and cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with fried onion rings.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitution for ground beef. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties such as cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the sour cream or add a splash of milk to the sauce. Ensure your macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a main dish. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Party Cheese Dip for extra flavor and variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes or until warmed, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Miss" Lonnie Mae'S Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 489 calories, with 14g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% 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. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! The casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. It keeps well for up to 2 months in the freezer.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you need a substitute, you can use a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk with added seasonings, or try another canned soup like cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
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).