Tasty Dried Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining dried beef, macaroni, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan; add chopped onion and green pepper. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Cut dried beef into small pieces; add to the onion mixture and cook until slightly browned.
- Stir in condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, pepper, and paprika. Heat to boiling.
- Cook macaroni in unsalted water until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the dried beef sauce mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you don't have dried beef, you can substitute with cooked ham or shredded rotisserie chicken. Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier twist. To enhance creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread or buttery biscuits. You could also serve it alongside Spanish Rice (Beef And Rice Casserole) for a hearty dinner spread that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Dried Beef Casserole contains roughly 741 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, as it may need a bit more time to heat through.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a different flavor or dietary restriction, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade white sauce. Simply whisk together butter, flour, milk, and seasonings to create a creamy base that will work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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).