Pasty Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables with creamy soups and crunchy crumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Remove excess fat from the cooked meat.
- Combine the cooked beef, cubed potatoes, grated carrots, grated celery, grated onions, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and beaten eggs in a large bowl.
- Mix in 1 cup of Pepperidge Farm dressing crumbs into the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour covered with foil.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding seasoning such as garlic powder or paprika to the beef during cooking. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables instead of the carrots and celery for a quicker prep. Ensure the potatoes are well-cooked for even mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasty Casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce. It also complements dishes like Char-Grilled Chicken for a diverse family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will maintain the casserole's texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasty Casserole contains roughly 1398 calories, with 33g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (237% of the Daily Value), potassium (102% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1164mg per serving (51% 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 the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Can I freeze the Pasty Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer not to use cream soups, you can make a homemade white sauce as a substitute. Combine 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 cup of broth or milk, whisking until thickened. This will give a similar creamy texture and can be seasoned to your liking for added flavor.
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).