Cottage Cheese Beef 'N Noodle Hot Dish
A hearty casserole combining tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, and creamy cottage cheese, topped with tomato sauce. This comforting dish offers a savory blend of flavors and textures, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles and drain.
- Saute sliced green onions and chopped green pepper in butter until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Combine tomato paste and sour cream in a bowl.
- Stir in cooked noodles and cottage cheese.
- Layer half of the noodle mixture in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodle mixture and beef.
- Pour tomato sauce over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some shredded cheese along with the cottage cheese. If you want to add more veggies, diced carrots or mushrooms can be excellent additions. You can also substitute the hamburger with ground turkey for a lighter option, or use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version. This dish is versatile, similar to American recipes that incorporate various proteins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It pairs wonderfully with Green Onion And Bacon Mashed Potatoes for a comforting meal. For an extra touch, garnish with additional sliced green onions or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Cheese Beef 'N Noodle Hot Dish contains roughly 581 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a similar texture. Cream cheese mixed with a little milk can also work as an alternative, adding a rich creaminess to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture. You could also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
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).