Fanny's Italian Casserole is a delectable dish that embodies the comforting essence of Italian cuisine. It is a one-pot meal that seamlessly blends tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a rich, flavorful sauce. The casserole is elevated by the addition of ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, which impart a creamy and cheesy texture. This comprehensive guide presents three variations of Fanny's Italian Casserole, each boasting unique flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds. The classic Italian Sausage version captures the essence of the dish with its hearty sausage and zesty sauce. The Chicken and Spinach variation offers a lighter, healthier alternative with succulent chicken and vibrant spinach. Lastly, the Vegetarian Delight is a meatless marvel, featuring an array of colorful vegetables and a creamy white sauce. These recipes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
FANNY'S WHISTLE-STOP CAFE CORN CASSEROLE
I got this recipe from Fannie Flagg's Whistle Stop Cafe Cookbook. I bring it to just about every potluck dinner we go to. The paprika is my own variation.
Provided by The Finicky Chef
Categories Corn
Time 55m
Yield 9-12 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Heat oven to 350.
- Combine first five ingrediants, mixing well; stir in cornbread mix.
- Pour into greased 12x8x2 casserole dish. Sprinkle with paprika or cayenne.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 343.7, Fat 20.6, SaturatedFat 6.5, Cholesterol 59.2, Sodium 714.7, Carbohydrate 36.5, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 8.2, Protein 6.1
FANNY'S ITALIAN CASSEROLE
To my family, this is known as 'Fannie's Junk,' named after my great-aunt who gave this recipe to my mom over 30 years ago. This is comfort food at its best, and an old family favorite. Serve with salad and crusty bread.
Provided by oscar'smom
Categories Italian Recipes
Time 2h25m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Place the hamburger into a large saucepan over medium heat, and cook and stir the meat until no longer pink, breaking the meat up into crumbles as it cooks, about 10 minutes. Stir in the onion and continue to cook and stir until the onion is translucent, about 5 more minutes. Drain grease from the pan, and stir in the 2 jars of sauce, basil, bay leaf, oregano, and celery salt. Reduce heat, and simmer the sauce for 1 hour. Remove from heat.
- About 15 minutes before the sauce is finished simmering, fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the macaroni, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Whisk together the mushroom soup and water in a bowl until smooth.
- Layer 1/3 of the meat sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, and spread half of the cooked macaroni over the sauce. Spoon half the soup mixture over the macaroni, and spread 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with 1/3 of the remaining sauce, the remaining pasta, the remaining soup mix, and 1 more cup of Cheddar cheese. Spread the last third of the meat sauce over the casserole, and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of Cheddar cheese. Spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray, and cover the dish with the foil.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake until the cheese topping is browned and the casserole is bubbling, about 15 more minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 430.7 calories, Carbohydrate 48 g, Cholesterol 45.2 mg, Fat 17.8 g, Fiber 4.3 g, Protein 19 g, SaturatedFat 8.1 g, Sodium 898.1 mg, Sugar 13.2 g
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your casserole.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is best for this dish. If you overcook it, it will become mushy and lose its texture.
- Use a variety of cheeses: A blend of cheeses will give your casserole a more complex flavor. Some good options include mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and ricotta.
- Don't skimp on the sauce: The sauce is what brings all the flavors of this dish together. Use a jarred sauce if you're short on time, but if you have the time, making your own sauce is definitely worth it.
- Add some vegetables: Vegetables will add color, texture, and nutrients to your casserole. Some good options include broccoli, zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms.
- Top with a crispy breadcrumb topping: A breadcrumb topping will add a nice crunch to your casserole. You can use plain breadcrumbs or add some herbs, cheese, or nuts for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
Fanny's Italian Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, give this casserole a try.
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