Missouri Casserole

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I grew up with comforting, hearty casseroles always taking center stage on the dinner table, especially during cooler months. The one dish that continues to bring back warm memories is this Missouri Casserole—a layered masterpiece of tender pasta, savory ground meat, tangy tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese, all baked until golden and bubbling. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the kitchen when it comes out of the oven.

What I love most about Missouri Casserole is how deeply satisfying and unfussy it is. It uses simple ingredients, yet delivers layers of flavor that feel nostalgic and homemade. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual potluck, or just meal-prepping for the week, this casserole checks all the boxes of comfort, taste, and ease.

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Why You’ll Love This Missouri Casserole

This recipe is a full-on crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both weeknights and special gatherings. It combines the richness of a meat sauce with the creamy pull of melted cheese, giving you that crave-worthy balance in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—you can sneak in veggies, use your favorite cheese, or swap in your preferred protein. The leftovers (if there are any!) are just as good reheated, making it a dependable go-to recipe for busy households.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best in Missouri Casserole?

While many casseroles lean on elbow macaroni or penne, I’ve found that wide egg noodles or lasagna sheets bring out the best in this dish. They hold up beautifully under the meat and cheese layers and absorb the sauce without turning mushy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try rotini or even rigatoni—just make sure the pasta you use has enough surface area or grooves to catch the rich tomato sauce and meat.

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Options for Substitutions

Missouri Casserole is flexible enough to cater to various dietary needs or preferences without losing its charm.

• Ground Meat: I typically use ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken makes for a leaner version. Ground pork or Italian sausage can also add depth.
• Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend. A sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking adds a nice crust.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions are traditional, but you can mix in zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach.
• Pasta Alternatives: Gluten-free pasta or even cooked rice can work if you need a gluten-free or grain variation.
• Tomato Sauce: If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara works great. Want more control? Make a simple sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.

With these substitution ideas, you can make this casserole truly your own while keeping the comfort-food core intact.

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Ingredients for This Missouri Casserole

• Ground Beef
  This is the heart of the dish, providing that rich, savory flavor that ties all the layers together. I prefer using 85/15 for a nice balance of fat and flavor.
• Onion
  Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory base that enhances the meat and sauce beautifully.
• Bell Peppers
  I use a mix of red and yellow for a pop of color and a subtle sweetness. They also add a bit of texture to the dish.
• Garlic
  A few cloves go a long way in giving the casserole a warm, aromatic depth.
• Crushed Tomatoes
  These make up the base of the sauce, giving it that bold, tangy tomato flavor that keeps the casserole moist and delicious.
• Tomato Paste
  Helps thicken the sauce and intensify the tomato richness.
• Cooked Pasta (egg noodles or rotini)
  These noodles soak up the sauce and layer well in the casserole. They give each bite that satisfying forkful.
• Cheddar Cheese
  Sharp cheddar melts into creamy pockets and adds a golden top layer that browns beautifully in the oven.
• Mozzarella Cheese
  Adds that classic stretchy, melty texture every good casserole needs.
• Salt and Pepper
  Essential for seasoning the meat and balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley
  Just a sprinkle on top after baking adds a fresh, vibrant finish to every bite.

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Step 1: Brown the Meat and Vegetables

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, stir in chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes.

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Step 2: Make the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low for about 10 minutes to let all the flavors meld together.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente—remember, it’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

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Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large greased baking dish, begin layering. Start with a scoop of meat sauce on the bottom, then add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a generous handful of shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a thick layer of cheese on top.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown edges.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

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How Long to Cook the Missouri Casserole

The total baking time for Missouri Casserole is around 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to cover it with foil for the first 20 minutes to keep the moisture in and allow the flavors to come together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, which gives the cheese that gorgeous golden-bubbly finish. Don’t forget to let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing—it helps the layers hold together.

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Tips for Perfect Missouri Casserole

• Use Al Dente Pasta: Slightly undercook your pasta so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
• Drain the Fat: After browning the ground beef, drain excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
• Layer Evenly: Spread each layer of sauce, pasta, and cheese evenly to get that perfect bite every time.
• Fresh Cheese Matters: If you can, shred your cheese from a block—it melts better and gives a richer texture.
• Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time after baking. It makes slicing easier and prevents a soupy mess.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta
  Fully cooked pasta will turn mushy in the oven. Cook it just until al dente—firm to the bite.
• Not Draining the Meat
  Leaving excess grease in the skillet can make the casserole oily. Always drain after browning the meat.
• Skipping Seasoning
  Failing to season the meat and sauce properly will leave the whole casserole tasting flat. Taste as you go.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese
  While convenient, it doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese is worth the extra step.
• Layering While Sauce is Too Hot
  Let the sauce cool slightly before layering—it helps keep the cheese and pasta from overcooking too early.
• Overbaking
  If the casserole stays in the oven too long, it’ll dry out. Keep a close eye once the foil comes off.

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What to Serve With Missouri Casserole?

Classic Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce from your plate.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli or other green veggies bring color and a healthy touch to the meal.

Roasted Tomatoes

Oven-roasted cherry tomatoes offer a burst of sweetness and acidity that pairs nicely with the savory casserole.

Sautéed Green Beans

Quick-cooked green beans with a touch of garlic and lemon provide crunch and contrast.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

A chilled, slightly sweet beverage cuts through the hearty dish and refreshes your palate.

Apple Slices or Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit side adds natural sweetness and a palate cleanser after each rich bite.

Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks

If you’re really leaning into the comfort food theme, go big with cheesy breadsticks on the side.

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Storage Instructions

Missouri Casserole stores beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely before covering tightly or transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the entire baked casserole or individual portions. Wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes or reheat the whole casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used, but here’s a general estimate for one serving (assuming 8 servings total):

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 75mg

This makes Missouri Casserole a well-balanced meal rich in protein and flavor, with a comforting but manageable calorie count.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta is best for Missouri Casserole?

I recommend wide egg noodles, rotini, or even rigatoni. They hold sauce well and don’t get too soft after baking.

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Can I make Missouri Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready—just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge.

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Can I freeze Missouri Casserole before baking?

Absolutely. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

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What cheese works best for this casserole?

A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect mix of flavor and melt. Add parmesan for a slightly nutty crust if you’d like.

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How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be sure to use enough sauce and cover with foil during the first part of baking. Also, don’t overbake—watch for that golden top and bubbling edges.

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Is this casserole spicy?

Not by default. But if you like heat, you can add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

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Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Of course! Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even chopped kale can blend in well with the meat sauce and boost the nutritional value.

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How many people does this casserole serve?

One batch makes a hearty 8 servings, ideal for a family meal or meal prep for the week.

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Conclusion

Missouri Casserole is the kind of dish that brings comfort, ease, and big flavor all in one baking dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, looking for leftovers that actually taste better the next day, or just craving a nostalgic, homey meal—this casserole delivers every time. With simple ingredients, flexible options, and a foolproof baking method, it’s bound to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

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