Whole Meal Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining ground meat, vegetables, and savory seasonings, topped with melted cheese. Its comforting taste makes it perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground meat, chopped bell pepper, and chopped onion until cooked.
- Add tomato paste, cream of mushroom soup, water, chili powder, and salt; stir well.
- Cover and cook for 30 minutes or until done.
- Add drained corn, chopped olives, and cooked noodles to the mixture.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake until cheese melts and the casserole is heated through. Let it set for a while before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier casserole, consider adding black beans or kidney beans for extra protein. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add jalapeños. Additionally, feel free to use different types of cheese on top for varied flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it alongside Marinated Three Bean Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of fruit or a light dessert like Thin Brownies to round out the dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Meal Casserole contains roughly 640 calories, with 16g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2180mg per serving (95% 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 stage and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
What type of noodles work best for this casserole?
Any type of noodles will work well, but egg noodles or rotini are particularly recommended for their ability to hold the sauce and ingredients together. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, or bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as 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).