Pantry Casserole
A hearty pantry casserole combining vegetables, creamy mushroom soup, and cheesy bread topping, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all vegetables well.
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch pan and layer the peas, asparagus, water chestnuts, and mushrooms.
- Pour mushroom soup over the layered vegetables.
- If desired, sprinkle with cayenne pepper for added seasoning.
- Cover the mixture with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Melt the butter and soak the bread pieces in it.
- Spread the bread over the cheese layer.
- Bake at 350°F until slightly browned, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor. If you have fresh vegetables on hand, feel free to use them instead of canned. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This pantry casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving with a side of crispy corn bread for added texture and flavor. It also makes a great potluck dish, so don't hesitate to share it at gatherings with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pantry Casserole contains roughly 680 calories, with 9g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (17% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This will ensure it cooks evenly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the old bread with gluten-free bread or even use gluten-free crackers for the topping. Just ensure all canned ingredients used are labeled gluten-free as well.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using fresh vegetables to ensure everything is cooked 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).