Cheese Noodle Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender noodles, seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and vegetables, topped with melted cheddar—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set aside the cooked noodles.
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce and mixed vegetables to the meat mixture; cook briefly.
- In a 2-quart casserole, mix cottage cheese and sour cream.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat mixture, and the cottage cheese mixture in the casserole dish.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. Ground turkey or chicken can replace hamburger for a lighter option. Adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Noodle Beef Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, such as a Wilted Salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A light dessert, like fruit salad, can be a refreshing end to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Noodle Beef Casserole contains roughly 753 calories, with 33g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or even a blend of cream cheese and milk for a similar creamy texture. Greek yogurt is another option that adds a tangy flavor while keeping it rich.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
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).