Penny Wise Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, sausage, tender macaroni, and flavorful vegetables, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling water for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Chop green pepper and onion, then boil slowly in a small amount of water until tender and water evaporates.
- Add ground beef and sausage to the vegetable mixture, cooking slowly and stirring until crumbly.
- Combine the meat and vegetable mixture with cooked macaroni, cream-style corn, and chicken with rice soup, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until the bread crumbs are brown and crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of meats, such as ground turkey or chicken sausage. You can substitute the cream-style corn with regular corn and a dash of cream for a fresher taste. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Adding spices like paprika or garlic powder can elevate the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Consider serving it alongside Mashed Peas And Potatoes for a comforting touch. For a complete family dinner, you can also serve it with garlic bread or a light soup like Chicken-Broccoli-Cheese Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Penny Wise Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave, covering them to retain moisture, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bread crumbs.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penny Wise Casserole contains roughly 240 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1712mg per serving (74% 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. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version. Each option will bring a unique flavor profile while still keeping the casserole delicious and satisfying.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or beans for protein. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup to maintain the flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
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).