Introduction

Shipwreck Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal packed with ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner when you want something satisfying and simple.

Shipwreck Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon salted butter
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
Step 3: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, milk, and butter. Add the frozen peas and corn, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Once simmering, gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
Feel free to substitute frozen mixed vegetables if you prefer a different veggie combination.
Using sharp cheddar cheese will give a more pronounced cheesy flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just ensure the pasta cooks fully during the simmering step.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a vegetarian version.

Shipwreck Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 621 reviews

Shipwreck Casserole is a hearty, comforting baked dish featuring a savory mix of ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole combines simmered ingredients with a cheesy baked topping, perfect for a family dinner that satisfies both kids and adults alike.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
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 Canned Goods

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes

Dairy and Fats

1 cup milk
1 tablespoon salted butter
3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Seasonings

salt (to taste)
pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Brown: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and softened.
Simmer: To the skillet, add the uncooked elbow macaroni noodles, diced tomatoes (including juices), milk, and salted butter. Stir everything together well. Then add the frozen peas and corn. Bring the entire mixture to a simmer, allowing the pasta to begin softening and the flavors to meld.
Season and Cheese: Once the mixture is simmering, gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to incorporate creamy, cheesy goodness throughout. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
Bake: Transfer the skillet mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a cheesy crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. After removing from the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set before serving.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
Make sure to cover the dish with foil during baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: shipwreck casserole, ground beef casserole, baked pasta, cheesy casserole, easy family dinner