Terry'S Favorite Casserole
Terry's Favorite Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish featuring seasoned ground meat, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato and mushroom sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its hearty flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Brown the ground beef or turkey with chopped onions; drain excess fat.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and return to the pot.
- Add the cooked meat to the macaroni.
- Stir in chopped stewed tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, tomato paste, and sour cream.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions. You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground beef or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option. To reduce the richness, use low-fat sour cream and cheese. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for an extra touch. Consider serving it alongside My Friend Betsy'S I Hate To Cook Chili for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and warm at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terry'S Favorite Casserole contains roughly 366 calories, with 16g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. At about 366 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. If baking from the fridge, add an extra 10-15 minutes to your cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce. For a healthier version, consider using a can of Vegetable Soup for a lighter flavor and added nutrients.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).