Washday Casserole
Hearty and comforting casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, pasta, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with bacon and cheese—perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour cooked hamburger and chopped onions into a casserole dish.
- Add chopped potatoes, chopped celery, and cooked spaghetti.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup over the mixture.
- Fry bacon slices until crispy and lay them on top of the casserole.
- Pour tomato juice over the bacon.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 1/2 hours until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the soup. To save time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or omit it altogether, although it adds a delicious flavor. This casserole is reminiscent of American recipes that combine comfort and convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Savory Corn Muffins for a comforting touch. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled for larger crowds. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the flavors when serving.
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 heated through, about 30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Washday Casserole contains roughly 2508 calories, with 74g protein, 250g carbohydrates, and 136g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (147% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2557mg per serving (111% 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 the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup or substitute with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce. For a healthier option, try using a vegetable broth and a splash of heavy cream for the desired consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or increase the amount of vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of tomato juice to maintain the flavor while keeping it vegetarian.
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).