Two-Way Casserole
A comforting two-way casserole combining tender chicken or ham with creamy soups and noodles, topped with melted cheese—perfect for family dinners and versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, cook chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine and heat through.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes or until hot, then stir.
- Top with cheese.
- Bake until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or thyme in the sauce mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for the cooked chicken. You can also swap in any cooked pasta you have on hand instead of noodles. For a creamy variation, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. This dish is a great way to use up leftovers, much like Dad's Broccoli Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread also complements the dish nicely. This Two-Way Casserole pairs beautifully with chicken recipes, making it a versatile choice for family dinners. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Make sure to cover the dish to retain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Two-Way Casserole contains roughly 1300 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 131g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1515mg per serving (66% 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 a different type of meat instead of chicken or ham?
Yes, you can easily substitute turkey, beef, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat you use is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I don't have cream of chicken or mushroom soup?
If you don't have those soups on hand, you can make a homemade substitute using a roux. Combine equal parts of flour and butter, add chicken or vegetable broth, and season to taste. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using whole wheat noodles and low-fat versions of the cream soups. Adding more vegetables like broccoli or spinach can also increase the nutritional value while adding flavor and color.
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).