Easy Cheese And Noodle Casserole
A hearty cheesy noodle casserole with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef, stirring often. Drain off fat and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine spaghetti sauce, water, and Worcestershire sauce.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, cottage cheese, and salt.
- In a greased 12 x 8 x 2-inch casserole dish, spoon one-third of the sauce mixture.
- Layer half of the uncooked noodles over the sauce.
- Spread all of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Top with half of the sliced mozzarella cheese.
- Add one-third of the sauce mixture on top.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodles, ground beef, and sauce.
- Cover the casserole and bake for 1 hour.
- Uncover and sprinkle remaining mozzarella slices on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, or use gluten-free noodles if needed. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can be used; just reduce baking time slightly. This dish pairs well with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese and noodle casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread complements the dish nicely, adding a crunchy texture. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. This dish also makes great leftovers for lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheese And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 700 calories, with 44g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (90% of the Daily Value), protein (88% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2515mg per serving (109% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each will give the casserole a unique flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey texture everyone loves.
Is it necessary to pre-cook the noodles?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked noodles. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as they will need less time in the oven.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).