My Friend Joyce'S "Bathtub Casserole"
My Friend Joyce's 'Bathtub Casserole' is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef and pork sausage with tangy crushed tomatoes and pepperoni. Perfect for gatherings, this cheesy, pasta-filled casserole will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 lb. mild pork sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (3 1/2 oz.) pkg. pepperoni slices, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (26 1/2 oz.) can spaghetti sauce ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) jar mild salsa
- 1 (4 1/2 oz.) can sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) jar pepperoncini salad peppers, drained and sliced
- 1 (16 oz.) pkg. shell macaroni, cooked ⓘ
- 1 c. Parmesan cheese, grated ⓘ
- 4 c. Mozzarella cheese, shredded ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, onion, green pepper, and mild pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring, until meat browns and crumbles. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine chopped pepperoni, crushed tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, salsa, and sliced mushrooms in a large bowl; stir in the meat mixture and cooked pasta shells.
- Spoon half of the mixture into 2 lightly greased 11 x 7 x 1 1/2-inch baking dishes.
- Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated; top with remaining cheeses and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try substituting ground turkey for the beef and using turkey pepperoni. You can also replace the mild salsa with a spicy variant for an extra kick. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or beans instead of meat, similar to Angie Weis' Prize Winning Chili. Make sure to drain the ingredients well to avoid a watery casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to Hobo Stew(Easy) or Crock-Pot Cabbage Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Friend Joyce'S "Bathtub Casserole" contains roughly 396 calories, with 25g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), and protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for the shell macaroni?
If you don't have shell macaroni, you can use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it's cooked al dente so it holds up well in the casserole. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier option.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated 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).