Description
Hubby Delight casserole layers rich, savory comfort into one hearty dish. Every scoop delivers warm, satisfying flavor the whole family loves.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Supporting Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
Seasonings and Garnishes:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter
Instructions
- Fire up your oven to 375°F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring every corner gets a light butter-like sheen.
- Place a skillet on medium heat. Crumble 1 pound ground beef, cooking until no pink remains. Toss in 1 diced onion, sautéing until translucent.
- Drain excess fat from the beef. Transfer meat and onion to a large mixing bowl.
- Add 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni, 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup milk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
- Stir all ingredients until thoroughly combined. Your mixture should look creamy and well-integrated.
- Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a generous coverage.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 22 minutes until cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. This helps the casserole set and prevents burning your mouth.
- Serve directly from the dish, scooping generous portions for your hungry family.
Notes
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop rich flavor and prevent any raw meat texture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a smoother, creamier topping compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- For a healthier version, substitute lean ground turkey and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking so it sets and becomes easier to serve without falling apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 455 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg