Touchdown Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, frankfurters, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, topped with cheese for a satisfying family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef in a large skillet.
- Stir to crumble and pour off fat.
- Stir in sliced frankfurters, chopped celery, pork and beans, and tomato sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then spoon into a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare mashed potatoes using 2 2/3 cups potato flakes for 8 servings according to package instructions.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture in the dish.
- Melt butter and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of potato flakes.
- Sprinkle the flakes over the mashed potatoes in the dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced onions or bell peppers when browning the ground beef. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Using homemade mashed potatoes instead of flakes can enhance the texture and taste. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture. This dish pairs beautifully with Ida'S Chili for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Touchdown Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting evening, serve alongside crusty bread or rolls. This dish is perfect for game day celebrations or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Touchdown Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Touchdown Casserole contains roughly 1452 calories, with 12g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 152g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of frankfurters?
You can substitute sliced sausage or kielbasa for the frankfurters for a different flavor profile. Additionally, diced ham or cooked bacon can work well, adding a smoky taste to the dish.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
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).