Ryans Casserole
A hearty baked casserole featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, topped with crunchy cheese crackers. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked and drained elbow macaroni, crushed stewed tomatoes, crushed canned tomatoes, and the cooked beef mixture.
- Cook the mixture on medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle crushed cheese crackers on top.
- Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until the crackers are brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef and onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or herbs for a personal touch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it with garlic bread or a slice of cornbread. It can also be enjoyed alongside Lemon Dream Bars for dessert, creating a delightful finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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, but be mindful not to overheat, as it can dry out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ryans Casserole contains roughly 843 calories, with 26g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1672mg per serving (73% 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 types of pasta in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes such as penne or rotini. Just ensure to cook the pasta according to package instructions before mixing it with the sauce for the best texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Alternatively, you can use spicy cheese-flavored crackers on top for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).