Hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor, the Hungry Boy Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This all-in-one baked dish pairs seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a medley of colorful mixed vegetables with a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a satisfying meal that's as indulgent as it is easy to make. Topped with melty cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy finish, this casserole comes together in just 50 minutes and serves six generously. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry crew, this classic casserole recipe delivers big on taste and convenience. Keywords: Hungry Boy Casserole, hearty casserole, easy weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food recipe.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or oil, and set it aside.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes until heated through.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni and the ground beef mixture to the bowl with the cheese mixture. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If using, add the breadcrumb topping for an extra crispy finish.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Hungry Boy Casserole!
Serving size | 2113.3 grams (2113.3g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 4144 |
Total Fat 228.60g | 293% |
Saturated Fat 118.40g | 592% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.30g | |
Cholesterol 675mg | 225% |
Sodium 5873mg | 255% |
Total Carbohydrate 355.10g | 129% |
Dietary Fiber 29.20g | 104% |
Total Sugars 53.60g | |
Protein 197.20g | 394% |
Vitamin D 54IU | 269% |
Calcium 2448mg | 188% |
Iron 19mg | 108% |
Potassium 3370mg | 72% |
Source of Calories