Leslie'S Delight
Leslie's Delight is a hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles, ideal for comforting family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. medium egg noodles ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. margarine ⓘ
- 1/3 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped green bell pepper ⓘ
- 3 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1/4 c. sour cream ⓘ
- 8 oz. cream cheese ⓘ
- 1 c. cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1 c. grated Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions and drain.
- Brown the ground beef, minced garlic, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper in margarine until meat is cooked through.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture and simmer briefly.
- In a separate bowl, blend together the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
- In a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, layer half of the cooked noodles.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles on top of the cheese layer.
- Pour the ground beef mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle the grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute whole wheat egg noodles for added fiber. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shredded beef or Ready Hamburger Mix can be a quick alternative. Adjust the spices according to your taste to elevate the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Leslie's Delight pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in individual servings until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leslie'S Delight contains roughly 388 calories, with 17g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value) and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% 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 Leslie's Delight a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, 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.
Can I freeze Leslie's Delight?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy days.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, consider using ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Both alternatives will maintain the creamy texture and flavor. You could also use a vegan cream cheese if you're looking for a dairy-free version.
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).