Save-A-Penny Casserole
A hearty, budget-friendly casserole combining ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, spaghetti, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and comforting weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Stir in undiluted cream of mushroom soup, spaghetti in tomato-cheese sauce, and drained mixed vegetables.
- Transfer the mixture to an ungreased 11 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes or until heated through.
- If desired, sprinkle with cheese and let stand a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder and onion before browning. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat to make it lighter or vegetarian. Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce for a different twist. Adding some Italian seasoning can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple coleslaw for crunch. It also works well as a filling option for potlucks or family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. For a fun twist, serve with toppings like sour cream or fresh parsley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Save-A-Penny Casserole contains roughly 752 calories, with 43g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (112% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg per serving (33% 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 other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh or frozen options like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using raw vegetables to ensure they are tender when the casserole is done.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Before baking, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To cook from frozen, bake it covered at 350°F for about an hour, then uncover and bake until bubbly.
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).