One Casserole Dinner(From 1975 Edition)
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, corn, and tomato sauces, baked to perfection—an easy, satisfying meal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute hamburger until brown.
- Meanwhile, boil macaroni until tender.
- Drain macaroni and combine with meat; add tomato sauces and seasonings.
- Fold in corn.
- Place mixture in a 2-quart casserole and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. If you don't have tomato sauce with onions or mushrooms, consider using plain tomato sauce and adding sautéed onions and mushrooms separately. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for added color and nutrition. Consider topping with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Casserole Dinner(From 1975 Edition) contains roughly 124 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2314mg per serving (101% 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 up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the foil and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces for a delicious vegetarian option.
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).