The charming and hearty Shipwreck Casserole is nothing short of a weeknight dinner hero. This delicious medley brings together ground beef, cheesy macaroni, and a colorful addition of veggies, making it an easy, satisfying dish your family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheese for endless variations.
- Comfort Food Delight: Warm, cheesy, and hearty, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Shipwreck Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a starring role. From the savory ground beef to the creamy cheddar, every component adds to the delectable combination of flavors and textures.
- Lean ground beef: Provides a robust and meaty base for the casserole.
- Macaroni and cheese mix: A convenient way to add cheesy goodness and a pasta foundation.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring a tangy freshness that balances the richness.
- Milk: Use it to create a creamy sauce.
- Frozen peas and corn: These sweet bites add color and texture.
- Seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor with a dash of extra spice.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top and throughout the casserole.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Shipwreck Casserole! This versatile recipe is perfect for experimenting, and you’ll find it adapts easily to whatever you have in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or some jalapeños for a spicier version.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Shipwreck Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. This is the savory base of your casserole, so ensure it’s fully cooked, adding extra depth with a hint of crispness.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Mix in the macaroni and cheese package contents, diced tomatoes, milk, peas, and corn into the skillet. Stir well to combine, then bring everything to a gentle boil. This step ensures all the flavors start mingling beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer and Season
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 12 minutes until the noodles are tender. Season with seasoned salt and stir half of the cheddar cheese into the dish to melt it throughout.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt before serving. This final touch adds an irresistible cheesy layer that makes every bite a delight.
Pro Tips for Making Shipwreck Casserole
- Perfect Brown: For the best flavor, let your beef crisp a little during the browning phase.
- Cheese Mixing: Blending cheese varieties can boost the flavor and stretchiness.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to use fresh or canned veggies if that’s what you have on hand.
- Enjoy with Extras: Topping with a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy contrast.
How to Serve Shipwreck Casserole
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the casserole just before serving. It adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh note that brightens up the flavors.
Side Dishes
This Shipwreck Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. These sides provide a refreshing and contrastive bite that complements the rich, hearty nature of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the casserole in individual bowls or ramekins for a personalized touch. Adding a sprig of fresh herbs or a small wedge of lemon on the side can make the presentation extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld together even more when allowed to sit, making leftovers even more delicious!
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap and store for up to three months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, warming individual portions in the microwave works well for a quick meal.
FAQs
-
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones. Just ensure they are cut into small, uniform pieces to cook evenly.
-
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Many macaroni and cheese mixes now offer gluten-free options.
-
What type of beef is best?
Lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier option, but you can use regular ground beef for a richer flavor.
-
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the mix for a bit of heat, or use spicy cheddar cheese for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Shipwreck Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug at the end of a long day. Its simplicity, adaptability, and comforting flavors are bound to make it a regular rotation in your meal planning. Give it a try, and see why it’s a family favorite in our kitchen!
Print
Shipwreck Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Shipwreck Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-pan dish combining tender ground beef, macaroni and cheese, and colorful vegetables, all simmered together for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (7.25 ounce) package macaroni and cheese mix
Vegetables and Liquids
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt or to taste
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add pasta and vegetables: Stir in the macaroni and cheese mix from the package, diced tomatoes, milk, peas, and corn. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the casserole: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, approximately 12 minutes.
- Season and add cheese: Stir in seasoned salt to taste. Mix in half of the shredded Cheddar cheese to let it melt into the dish.
- Finish with cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese over the top and cover briefly until the cheese melts. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped herbs such as parsley or basil before serving.
- Adjust the seasoned salt according to your taste preferences.
- Use fresh vegetables if desired; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- This dish reheats well and makes for a great leftover meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 470 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
