Mom'S Company Beef Casserole
A comforting beef casserole layered with noodles and creamy cheese mixture, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering rich flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil noodles; drain and rinse. Brown meat lightly.
- Add tomato sauce and set aside.
- Mix cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, green onions, and bell pepper with electric mixer until smooth.
- Place 2/3 of the cooked noodles in a 2 1/2-quart casserole.
- Spread all of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles and meat on top as layers.
- Cover and chill overnight.
- Bake for 1 hour at 375°F, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. You can also substitute the ground round with turkey for a leaner option. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can be a great shortcut. Make sure to season the meat with salt and pepper while browning for enhanced flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks and can be easily doubled. It also pairs beautifully with Cheesey Potato Skins as a fun appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For individual servings, a microwave works well, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Company Beef Casserole contains roughly 315 calories, with 16g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. At about 315 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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, this casserole is great for making ahead! Prepare it the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it the following day for the best flavor and texture. If you want, you can also freeze it before baking for later use.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a suitable substitute for cream cheese, providing a similar creaminess. Alternatively, you could use a vegan cream cheese if you're following a plant-based diet. Just ensure the flavors blend well with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground round with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor, making it a delicious vegetarian recipe.
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).