Penny Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef with sliced potatoes, carrots, and onions, topped with mushroom soup—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Layer half of the cooked beef at the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Add a layer of sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes on top of the beef.
- Repeat with the remaining beef, then spread mushroom soup over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Instead of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or vegetable soup works well too. For added nutrition, throw in some frozen peas or corn between the layers. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Penny Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of cornbread or a dollop of sour cream on top. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penny Casserole contains roughly 1152 calories, with 36g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1305mg per serving (57% 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 use different vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole is quite versatile. You can swap in vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even frozen mixed vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you're using quicker-cooking veggies, so they don't become mushy.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh. Use a vegetable-based soup instead of mushroom soup and load up on your favorite veggies to maintain flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this casserole for later use?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Prepare it as directed, but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).