Peg Bracken'S Scotch Casserole
A hearty casserole combining macaroni, corned beef, sharp cheese, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with crunchy bread crumbs. Perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in two quarts of salted water until tender.
- Blend milk with undiluted mushroom soup and add chopped corned beef, diced sharp cheese, garlic salt, and chopped onion.
- Grease a large casserole dish and fill it with alternating layers of the beef mixture and cooked macaroni.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top and dot with butter.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or cheese. If you're short on time, you can use leftover cooked macaroni or even substitute with a gluten-free pasta. To enhance the flavor, try incorporating some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the beef mixture. This dish is a great way to use up pantry staples and can easily be adjusted based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Scotch casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Tangy Glazed Ham for a hearty feast. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside some warm bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Scotch casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but for the best texture, the oven method is recommended. Freezing is possible, but the texture may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peg Bracken'S Scotch Casserole contains roughly 590 calories, with 16g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 790mg per serving (34% 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 it a day in advance. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill.
What can I substitute for corned beef?
If you don't have corned beef, you can use shredded cooked chicken or even ground beef as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of beans or lentils to maintain the protein content while keeping the dish hearty.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that the mushroom soup you choose is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors without the gluten.
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).