No Name Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining ground beef, tomatoes, mushrooms, and pasta, topped with melted cheese. Rich in savory flavors, it's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying, filling dish that appeals to meat lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped garlic together in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add canned mushrooms, canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, cooked macaroni, and parsley to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 45 minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to make it vegetarian, replace the meat with lentils or a meat substitute. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; mozzarella or cheddar work exceptionally well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor. It makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover the dish to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Name Casserole contains roughly 252 calories, with 13g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 890mg per serving (39% 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 follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it 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 use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni on hand, you can substitute with any small pasta shape like penne or rotini. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even quinoa as a base. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for different pasta types.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).