Sam'S Hearty Beef Casserole
A hearty beef casserole featuring tender macaroni, creamy cheeses, and savory tomato sauce—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain.
- Brown hamburger; drain off grease.
- Add tomato sauce to the browned beef.
- Remove from heat.
- Combine in a bowl the cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and chopped green peppers.
- Spread half the cooked macaroni shells into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with all the cheese mixture.
- Add remaining macaroni shells on top.
- Pour the beef-tomato mixture over the assembled layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding some garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef as it cooks. You can substitute the shell macaroni with penne or rotini if preferred. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey instead of hamburger. This dish can also be made vegetarian by replacing the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty beef casserole is perfect as a main dish and pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition. If you're preparing for a crowd, browse more American recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Hearty Beef Casserole contains roughly 192 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
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 prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as paprika or cumin to the beef mixture. For a bit of heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Additionally, mixing in some shredded cheese in the layers can add a delightful cheesy richness.
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).