Party Casserole
Party Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish layered with seasoned beef, noodles, and a creamy cheese mixture, topped with olives for a savory touch. Perfect for gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of flavors that appeal to families and friends seeking a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion; add Ragu sauce and heat to boiling point.
- Beat the cream cheese; add cottage cheese, sour cream, and sliced olives, then mix well.
- In a 3-quart casserole, layer half of the beef mixture, half of the cooked noodles, and half of the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Party Casserole, consider adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the hamburger while browning. If you're short on time, you can substitute the medium noodles with pre-cooked pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option. Additionally, swapping Ragu sauce with homemade marinara can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Party Casserole with a side of Fresh Spinach Salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a light green salad also pairs beautifully with this hearty dish. For a complete meal, consider including Jackie'S Broccoli Salad, which adds a crunchy texture and complements the creamy casserole nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Casserole contains roughly 746 calories, with 26g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1615mg 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. Just assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the leftover casserole?
Yes, Party Casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Both will provide creaminess, though ricotta will impart a slightly different texture. Ensure to adjust seasonings accordingly, as Greek yogurt may add a tangy 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).