Noodles Milanese

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

Noodles Milanese offers a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy spinach, and melted cheeses layered over wide noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 Tbsp. salad oil
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • 1/4 c. Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 lb. Mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. oregano
  • 2 eggs
  • 8 oz. wide noodles
  • 1 pkg. chopped spinach
  • 1 c. cottage cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown the chopped onion and minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of salad oil; add the ground beef and cook until browned.
  2. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
  3. Beat one egg and mix it with the cooked noodles.
  4. Beat the second egg and combine it with chopped spinach, 1 tablespoon of salad oil, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat mixture while it simmers. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version. If you don’t have mozzarella, try using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different twist. Fresh herbs like basil can enhance the freshness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Noodles Milanese hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a light soup. This dish is a fantastic centerpiece for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated evenly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Noodles Milanese contains roughly 1323 calories, with 49g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (149% of the Daily Value), calcium (110% of the Daily Value), and protein (99% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1323 kcal 66% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 49.3g 99% DV
Total Fat 86.5g 100% DV
Carbs 102g 37% DV
Fiber 17g 61% DV
Sugar 8.9g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1107.7mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 132.2mg 44% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 468.1mcg 52% DV
Vitamin C 30.4mg 34% DV
Vitamin D 0.6mcg 3% DV
Calcium 1432.2mg 100% DV
Iron 26.9mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 Noodles Milanese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce and noodles in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if it's going in cold from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure everything is heated thoroughly.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese makes a great substitute, providing a similar creamy texture. You could also use a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a richer flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to maintain the dish's consistency.

Can I freeze Noodles Milanese?

Absolutely! Noodles Milanese freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.

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).

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