Supper Layer Casserole
A hearty layered casserole featuring macaroni, green beans, and savory meat, topped with cheese. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Brown the chopped onion in fat until translucent.
- Add diced meat to the onion and cook until browned.
- Pour the cream of celery or mushroom soup and milk over the meat mixture.
- In a casserole dish, layer half of the cooked macaroni, green beans or asparagus, and meat mixture.
- Top with half a cup of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with remaining macaroni, green beans or asparagus, meat mixture, and cheese.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To elevate the flavors, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme to the onion while browning. You can substitute the meat with cooked chicken or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the soup. This dish pairs beautifully with Miss Ruby'S Burnt Sugar Frosting for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. It’s also great with roasted vegetables on the side. Consider pairing it with a refreshing dessert like Coconut Pie Impossible to round out the meal for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Supper Layer Casserole contains roughly 1016 calories, with 21g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 780mg per serving (34% 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 cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist to the dish. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for a creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Certainly! Fresh green beans or asparagus can be blanched before layering them in the casserole. This adds a nice crunch and vibrant color. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
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).