Martha'S Company Casserole(Low-Fat Version)
A creamy, low-fat casserole with tender noodles, savory tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses and vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal or healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions; drain.
- Saute lean ground beef until browned, using a little margarine if necessary.
- Remove beef from heat and add tomato sauce to the beef.
- Combine low-fat cream cheese, low-fat cottage cheese, sour cream, chopped scallions, and minced green pepper in a bowl.
- Spread half of the cooked noodles in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles on top.
- Optional: Pour melted margarine over the noodles.
- Pour the tomato-meat sauce over the casserole.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of lean ground beef. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, try substituting the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. You can also enhance the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cheese mixture. For a bit of crunch, throw in some chopped bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also enjoy it alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread for added satisfaction. For a unique twist, serve it with a side of Broccoli-Ramen Slaw to complement the dish's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha'S Company Casserole(Low-Fat Version) contains roughly 621 calories, with 19g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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. Just layer the ingredients, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just cover it well with foil or plastic wrap after assembling. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for low-fat cream cheese?
If you prefer not to use low-fat cream cheese, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture. Both options will still keep the casserole creamy and delicious without compromising flavor.
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).