Shipwreck Casserole Recipe
Shipwreck Casserole is a hearty, comforting one-dish meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, mixed vegetables, and a rich cheesy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. This easy-to-make casserole combines simple ingredients like diced tomatoes, milk, peas, corn, and sharp cheddar cheese for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
Pasta and Dairy
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Seasonings
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of lean ground beef until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks for even browning.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add 1 cup diced onion and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef and cook together for about 1 minute until fragrant and softened.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles, 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes, 1 cup milk, and 1 tablespoon salted butter into the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Incorporate Frozen Veggies & Simmer: Add 1 cup frozen peas and 1 cup frozen corn. Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the pasta to soften and flavors to meld.
- Season and Add Cheese: Gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing it to set for easier slicing and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
- Covering the casserole with foil while baking keeps the moisture in, preventing the dish from drying out.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it firm up and makes portioning easier.
Keywords: Shipwreck casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy beef pasta bake, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food casserole
Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/shipwreck-casserole-recipe/
