Beef 'N Noodle Casserole
A hearty beef and noodle casserole featuring tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, and creamy tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions; drain.
- In a large skillet, sauté sliced green onions and chopped green pepper in butter for 3 minutes or until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- In a medium bowl, combine tomato paste and sour cream; stir in cooked noodles and cottage cheese.
- Layer half the noodle mixture in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with half the cooked beef mixture; repeat layers.
- Pour tomato sauce evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or using Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also use whole wheat noodles for a healthier option. If you want a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef 'N Noodle Casserole with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are great options to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a light dessert like fruit salad can round out the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef 'N Noodle Casserole contains roughly 404 calories, with 16g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help it heat evenly.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative that will give a similar creamy texture. You can also use a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a richer flavor. Just ensure the consistency is creamy enough to mix well with the other ingredients.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using cooked lentils or mushrooms as a substitute for the ground beef. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).