Create a Casserole From Your Pantry

 Create a Casserole From Your Pantry

Serves 6 to 8

Select food(s) from each category or choose your family favorites.

~Grain - select ONE

2 cups dry pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, spiral, bow tie)

1 cup dry long-grain white or brown rice

4 cups dry medium or wide noodles 

~Protein - select ONE

2 cups cooked ground meat

2 cups cooked and diced chicken, turkey, ham, beef, pork, or tofu

2 cups chopped cooked egg

2 (6 to 8-ounce) cans fish or seafood, flaked

2 cups canned, rinsed or cooked dried beans (kidney, pinto, black, etc.)

~Vegetable - select ONE

1 (10 to 16-ounce) package frozen, thawed and drained: spinach, broccoli, green beans or peas

1 to 2 cans, drained and rinsed: mixed vegetables, carrots or corn

2 cups sliced fresh zucchini, kale, tomatoes, potatoes or squash

~Sauce - select ONE

1 can condensed cream soup (mushroom, celery, cheese, or chicken) mixed with milk or water to make 2 cups; or 2 cups white pasta sauce

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice

~Seasoning - select ONE or MORE

¼ to ½ cup chopped celery, onion or olives

1 - 2 teaspoons mixed herbs (basil, thyme, marjoram, tarragon)

Pepper and spices to taste 

~Topping - select ONE or MORE

2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

¼ to ½ cup shredded Swiss, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese

¼ to ½ cup bread, cracker or cereal crumbs

~Directions-Wash hands. Cook grains according to package directions.

 Spray a 2 to 2½ quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray, then combine all ingredients in dish, except topping.

 Cover and bake at 350°F for about 50 to 60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and casserole is steaming hot throughout.

 Add toppings, if desired and place in oven uncovered for about 10 minutes.