Martha'S Company Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender noodles, seasoned beef, and creamy cheese layers, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and spread them in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the base layer.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then add tomato puree, salt, pepper, and a pinch of basil. Simmer briefly to combine flavors.
- Melt cream cheese and mix it with chopped small onion and green pepper.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the cooked noodles in the pan.
- Spread the beef mixture over the cheese layer.
- Bake the casserole at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef or use low-fat cottage cheese. For additional creaminess, stir in some sour cream with the cream cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to create your own variation.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting touch. For a fun twist, consider making it a part of a potluck spread alongside Rhett'S Favorite Casserole for a delicious variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha'S Company Casserole contains roughly 680 calories, with 20g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1596mg per serving (69% 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. Assemble the layers, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze Martha's Company Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely after baking, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until bubbly and heated through.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you're looking for a substitute for egg noodles, consider using whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Each has its own cooking time, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are cooked but not overdone in the casserole.
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).