No-Brown Hamburger Casserole(A Meatloaf With Macaroni And Vegetables)
A hearty, comforting casserole combining ground beef, macaroni, vegetables, and creamy tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and satisfying for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture into a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 1/2 hours until cooked through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use whole wheat macaroni. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking. The optional pimento can add a nice touch of color and flavor, similar to what you might find in Texas Hash Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread on the side. You can also enjoy this hearty dish with a side of your favorite pickles or coleslaw to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No-Brown Hamburger Casserole(A Meatloaf With Macaroni And Vegetables) contains roughly 649 calories, with 36g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (224% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type, as some may require different cooking durations. Remember to follow package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the No-Brown Hamburger Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking at 350°F (175°C) 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).