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Man's Casserole
Man’s Casserole is a hearty, classic American comfort dish that brings together ground beef, noodles, onions, and cheese in a creamy sauce. It’s simple, filling, and ideal for family dinners or potlucks. The recipe’s nostalgic flavor, creamy texture, and golden-baked finish make it a crowd favorite. Its origins trace back to mid-20th-century home cooking when casseroles became staples in American households due to their simplicity and affordability.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups noodles (egg noodles recommended)
  • 1 tbs butter (for boiling noodles)
  • salt (to taste, for pasta water)
  • 1 ½ cups onion (chopped)
  • 1 tbs margarine (or butter, for sautéing)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 can cream of celery soup
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 cup cheese (diced, cheddar or American suggested)
  • 1 egg (large)

Optional

  • Parmesan cheese (grated)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 2 cups of noodles. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Onions

  • In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon margarine or butter over medium heat. Add 1½ cups chopped onion, 1 pound ground beef, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

  • In a bowl, combine 1 can cream of celery soup, ¼ cup milk, 1 cup diced cheese, and 1 beaten egg (small or large). Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  • Preheat oven to 325–350°F. In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles, beef-onion mixture, and cheese-soup mixture. Stir until evenly combined.

Step 5: Bake

  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 8x8-inch casserole dish. Cover with lid or foil and bake for 1 hour.

Step 6: Optional Topping

  • Before baking, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and crunch.

Tips

  • Substitute cream of mushroom soup for celery for a richer flavor.
  • Add frozen peas or carrots for more color and nutrition.
  • Use sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese for a stronger flavor.
  • For a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips before baking.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for easy next-day baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 28gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 420IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword Beef, casserole, cheesy, comfort food, easy dinner, family dinner, hearty, noodles, vintage recipe
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