Yankee Doodle Dandy
A creamy, cheesy casserole with tender celery, corn, noodles, sharp Cheddar, and dried beef, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery in oleo until tender.
- Stir in flour and salt.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Add creamed corn and cooked noodles.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and dried beef.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dried beef with cooked and crumbled bacon, or use turkey for a lighter version. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, replace the noodles with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, feel free to use any cheese on hand, such as Monterey Jack. This dish is reminiscent of comforting American recipes that families cherish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of Aunt Jenny'S Potted Beef for a filling dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick lunch, but make sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yankee Doodle Dandy contains roughly 599 calories, with 19g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1446mg per serving (63% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze Yankee Doodle Dandy?
Absolutely! This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely and store in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of creamed corn?
If you don't have creamed corn, you can blend fresh corn kernels with a bit of cream or milk to create a similar consistency. Alternatively, you can use canned corn and add a touch of heavy cream or a cornstarch slurry to thicken the mixture. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the dish.
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).