Centennial Casserole
A comforting casserole combining noodles, hamburger, and creamy cheese flavors, topped with buttery crumbs—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until barely done; drain.
- Brown the hamburger and onion; drain.
- Mix the cooked noodles, browned hamburger and onion, cottage cheese, mushroom soup, milk, Velveeta cheese, and diced red pimento together.
- Transfer the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake for one hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or a bit of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting the Velveeta cheese with shredded low-fat cheese. You can also use whole wheat noodles for added nutrition. Make sure not to overcook the noodles initially, as they will continue to cook while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Centennial Casserole with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Garlic Bread for added flavor. A side of pickles or coleslaw can also complement the rich flavors of the casserole, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Centennial Casserole contains roughly 636 calories, with 12g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1163mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer a different texture or flavor, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt. Both alternatives will provide a creamy consistency while adding a unique taste to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the hamburger and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
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).