Olive'S Casserole
Olive's Casserole is a hearty baked dish combining noodles, ground beef, vegetables, and cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet; drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped green pepper, chopped onions, season with pepper, and stir in tomato sauce; cook briefly.
- Blend the cottage cheese and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Spoon half of the cooked noodles into a greased casserole dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Pour the meat sauce over the cheese layer.
- Add the remaining noodles on top if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. Using whole wheat noodles can make this dish healthier while still maintaining its heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a main dish. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, consider pairing it with a 'Sweet Earth' Dessert to balance the savory flavors. You can also offer some steamed vegetables as a side for added color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive'S Casserole contains roughly 671 calories, with 23g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 465mg per serving (20% 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 use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian twist. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if necessary, especially for leaner meats.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, simply replace the regular noodles with gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, such as rice noodles or gluten-free penne, which work well in this dish without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baked straight from cold.
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).