Hamburger-Pasta Cheese Bake
A hearty baked pasta dish combining seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, topped with tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute hamburger, onion, and green pepper.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Boil manicotti shells for 4 minutes; drain on towels.
- Fill shells with cottage cheese and shredded cheese.
- Place filled shells in a baking dish.
- Pour sauce over the shells.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try mixing in some ricotta cheese with the cottage cheese. If you don't have manicotti shells, large shells or even cooked pasta can work as a substitute. For added flavor, consider incorporating some Italian herbs or spices into the sauce. To save time, use pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. This dish goes well with a side of Mrs. Dave Long'S Appetizers.
Serving Suggestions
This Hamburger-Pasta Cheese Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some color and nutrition to your plate. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Lima Beans With Ham Bone.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger-Pasta Cheese Bake contains roughly 182 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1418mg per serving (62% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Hamburger-Pasta Cheese Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I substitute for the ground hamburger?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or black beans as a meat substitute. Both options will provide great flavor and texture while making this dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
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).