Mrs. Gards' Casserole
Mrs. Gards' Casserole is a comforting baked dish with savory hamburger, creamy corn, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onions in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream-style corn, Franco-American spaghetti in tomato sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with cut-up American cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. If you prefer a bit more flavor, add minced garlic or spices like paprika. You can also mix in some frozen mixed vegetables for added nutrition. If you don't have American cheese, try using cheddar or a cheese blend. This casserole is a great base to experiment with other ingredients from American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad, such as Spinach Salad (Celebrity Favorite), to balance the richness. It pairs wonderfully with Kimberly'S Broccoli & Grape Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding some crusty bread or rolls on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For larger amounts, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Gards' Casserole contains roughly 314 calories, with 17g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2414mg per serving (105% 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. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Franco-American spaghetti?
You can use any canned spaghetti with tomato sauce or even homemade spaghetti if you have it on hand. Just make sure it's well-seasoned to complement the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Substitute the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the dish's flavor.
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).