P.P.L.P. Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned hamburger, noodles, green beans, and crispy onion rings topped with melted cheese, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions.
- Brown hamburger in a frying pan.
- Mix one can of water with one can of tomato soup.
- Drain noodles and layer them on the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Drain browned hamburger and place it over the noodles.
- Drain green beans and layer them over the hamburger.
- Cover with French fried onion rings.
- Pour tomato soup mixture over all ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove casserole from oven and add slices of American cheese.
- Bake for another 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of sour cream or cream cheese before layering the other ingredients. If you want to add some flavor, try mixing in some Italian seasoning or garlic powder with the tomato soup. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter option, or use whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
This P.P.L.P. Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a dish like Pork Sausage Brunch for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of P.P.L.P. Casserole contains roughly 161 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese adds creaminess, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Additionally, check if your tomato soup is vegetarian-friendly to keep the entire dish meat-free.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the tomato soup mixture. You can also choose a spicy variety of cheese, like pepper jack, to enhance the flavor without altering the recipe significantly.
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).