Super Easy Hot Dish
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining seasoned croutons, ground beef, and creamy soups, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix croutons, hamburger, and celery and place in a large casserole dish.
- Melt butter with hot water or milk and pour over the mixture.
- Blend the two cans of cream of celery and cream of chicken soups and pour over the top.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an easier preparation, you can use pre-cooked or leftover hamburger instead of raw. Substitute the croutons with stale bread cubes or seasoned breadcrumbs for a different texture. If you want a creamier consistency, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. This dish is perfect for using up pantry staples and can easily be modified with your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Super Easy Hot Dish is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting touch, serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls. This dish is also an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, sure to please a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave until heated through, or re-bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until hot. Adding a splash of milk can help restore moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Easy Hot Dish contains roughly 943 calories, with 18g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2723mg per serving (118% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to hamburger in this recipe. It will provide a lighter flavor and is a healthier option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of the hot water or milk and ensure that the cream soups are vegetarian-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meat-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this hot dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring it is heated thoroughly before serving.
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).