Working Girl'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, creamy soups, and pasta, topped with cheese for a comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off excess fat, then add tomato soup and mushroom soup to the beef mixture and cook until the meat is done.
- Meanwhile, cook Creamettes pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and combine it with the meat and soup mixture.
- Mix all ingredients together, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese if desired, and bake until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick meal, prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. You can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked pasta or frozen mixed vegetables to add more nutrition without extra prep. Spice it up with some Italian seasoning or garlic powder for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For an added crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking for a delightful texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave until heated through or in the oven at 350°F until bubbly. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of broth or additional soup before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Working Girl'S Casserole contains roughly 548 calories, with 18g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute Creamettes with any small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or penne. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. Additionally, use vegetable soup instead of the tomato and mushroom soups for a vegetarian-friendly option.
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).