Tired Wife'S Supper
A hearty, comforting casserole combining macaroni, savory meat, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for a quick family dinner that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente; set aside.
- Cook chopped onion, chopped celery, and pimento in a little butter until tender.
- Add hamburger meat to the vegetable mixture and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a casserole dish, combine cooked macaroni, tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Add the meat and vegetable mixture to the casserole dish and mix well.
- Bake at 350°F until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt.
- Serve hot with Italian bread on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic or herbs like oregano in the vegetable mixture. You can substitute the hamburger meat with ground turkey or beef for a leaner option. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned tomatoes work just as well. To save time, use pre-cooked macaroni or even a different type of pasta. This dish pairs beautifully with Chris' Favorite Pizza for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot with a side of Italian bread for a comforting meal. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Garlic Bread or a classic Caesar Salad. This dish is also excellent for potlucks and family gatherings, making it a versatile choice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tired Wife'S Supper contains roughly 416 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2532mg per serving (110% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate 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 all the way through.
What can I use instead of cheese?
If you're looking to reduce the dairy, you can omit the cheese entirely or use dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, you could sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for added texture without cheese.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just make sure to cook them until tender before mixing them into the casserole. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your family's preferences.
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).