The Best Shipwreck Dinner Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that layers ground beef, potatoes, and tangy tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese.
This classic casserole gets its name from its “layered and mixed” appearance, resembling a delicious culinary shipwreck.
It’s a simple, budget-friendly, and family-approved meal that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
3 potatoes, sliced thin
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly.
Next, layer the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice evenly over the top.
Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup, water, salt, and black pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this hearty and comforting shipwreck dinner with your family!
To make the most of your Shipwreck Dinner Casserole, ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
Consider adding extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost both flavor and nutrition.
Don’t be afraid to season generously with spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to enhance the dish’s depth.
While cheddar cheese provides a classic touch, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
Assembling the casserole in advance and refrigerating it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option.
During baking, covering the dish with foil helps the potatoes cook thoroughly while keeping the casserole moist, and removing the foil toward the end ensures the cheese melts to a golden, bubbly perfection.
Finally, let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
To store Shipwreck Dinner Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or covering the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you plan to store it for a longer period, divide the casserole into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, where it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
For a quicker option, you can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the casserole’s original texture and flavor.