Picnic Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, and chow mein noodles, baked to create a savory dish with a hint of crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a versatile favorite for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground beef loosely in butter with chopped onion until browned.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato soup, chopped celery, and chopped green pepper (if using). Season to taste.
- Put the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with chow mein noodles.
- Bake slowly at 325°F for 1 1/2 hours.
- Uncovered, the casserole will form a tasty crust.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the chow mein noodles with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchier topping. To enhance the dish, add garlic or Italian seasoning. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to throw them in for extra nutrition. This casserole is reminiscent of Mary'S Goulash in its comforting, hearty nature.
Serving Suggestions
This picnic casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread to balance out the richness. It also pairs wonderfully with a light soup or chowder. For a fun twist, offer some hot sauce on the side for those who like a kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Casserole contains roughly 508 calories, with 12g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 901mg per serving (39% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you don't have chow mein noodles, you can use crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips as a topping for a different texture. Alternatively, you can skip the crunchy topping altogether and serve the casserole with a side of bread or crackers.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a blend of lentils, quinoa, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
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).