Noodle And Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy noodle casserole with scallions and Parmesan, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that love rich flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in rapidly boiling salted water for about 8 to 10 minutes or until tender but not soft.
- Drain well and keep warm.
- Mash cottage cheese with cream cheese and sour cream.
- Mix this with the cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in chopped scallions or chives.
- Turn the mixture into a generously buttered 2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese in place of cottage cheese. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Adding cooked vegetables such as spinach or broccoli can enhance the nutritional value and add flavor. For a bit of spice, try incorporating some jalapenos into the mix. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This Noodle and Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a side of Cranberry-Apple Crunch for dessert, which complements the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the top from browning too much during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 500 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1617mg per serving (70% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
While traditional egg noodles are commonly used, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to achieve the desired tenderness.
Can I freeze the leftover casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover casserole for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).