Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty cheesy ground beef casserole with tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cottage cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles, rinse, and set aside.
- Saute 1/4 cup chopped green onion in margarine in a large skillet until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until lightly browned; drain well.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, and pepper; stir and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Combine cottage cheese, sour cream, and remaining green onion; stir well and set aside.
- Place cooked noodles in a lightly greased 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the cheese mixture and sprinkle with shredded sharp cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer more vegetables, add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. Ensure the egg noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy ground beef casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a light vinaigrette. It can also be enjoyed alongside American recipes like 'No Fat' Vegetable Soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 291 calories, with 15g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1387mg per serving (60% 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 this casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. You might want to add a little extra cheese on top before baking for a delicious finish.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you prefer a gluten-free option or want to try something different, you can substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb version. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
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).