Penthouse Casserole
A creamy, comforting casserole combining macaroni, chicken, mushrooms, and a savory sauce, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Kraft macaroni and cheese Deluxe dinner as directed on the package.
- Add cream of celery soup, flaked chicken, drained mushrooms, milk, and chopped onion to the cooked macaroni.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs tossed with melted margarine.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or replacing some of it with sour cream. You can substitute the flaked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. If you want to add extra flavor, toss in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, especially when paired with a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Penthouse Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light soup. It’s a delightful main course that showcases comforting flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penthouse Casserole contains roughly 726 calories, with 17g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg 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 use a different type of soup in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. Each of these options will still provide the creamy texture needed for the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, broccoli, or spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor of the dish. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before mixing them in to ensure they are tender when the casserole is done.
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).