Cottage Noodle Casserole
A creamy cottage noodle casserole with melted cheddar topping, blending tender noodles, cottage cheese, and a hint of lemon for a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles until tender and drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan; add chopped onion and cook until clear.
- In a small bowl, blend flour, dry mustard, and salt; add to the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Stir in lemon juice and fold in cottage cheese.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the drained noodles.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Place under the broiler just long enough to brown the cheese on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the cottage cheese with ricotta. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens vary; the casserole is done when it's bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. This dish pairs beautifully with No Fail Hash Brown Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting brunch option, consider serving it alongside Jason'S French Toast for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cottage Noodle Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Noodle Casserole contains roughly 1070 calories, with 14g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1651mg per serving (72% 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. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove the wrap and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique taste. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Cottage Noodle Casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).