Mrs. Lillian Redmond'S Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty ground beef casserole with macaroni, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, drain excess fat.
- Add flour, Lipton soup mix, water, and tomato sauce to the beef.
- Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook macaroni in salted water, drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and pour into a Pyrex dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing the beef and tomato sauce. You can substitute the macaroni with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. If you're looking for more flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the ground beef. This dish can also be made with ground turkey as a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking. This dish is reminiscent of comfort food classics like Linda'S Big Hot Dish, making it perfect for family gatherings.
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 with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, or bake in the oven at 350°F until hot, which helps maintain the cheese's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Lillian Redmond'S Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 302 calories, with 16g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. At about 302 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I don't have Lipton soup mix?
If you don't have Lipton soup mix, you can create a similar flavor by using a combination of beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and garlic powder. This homemade seasoning blend will still provide a savory taste to the casserole.
Can I freeze the ground beef casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
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).