Sarah'S Casserole
A hearty, cheesy beef casserole with rich tomato sauce and creamy layers, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks that enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the small onion until translucent.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce to the beef and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Layer cooked spaghetti in a casserole dish, then top with the beef and tomato sauce mixture.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the top layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the cottage cheese for ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked spaghetti or even substitute with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Adding some Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top can enhance the presentation. For a comforting side, consider pairing it with Baked Beans And Hamburger, which is One Of Les' Favorites. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until warm. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sarah'S Casserole contains roughly 706 calories, with 28g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Prepare it as instructed, but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly and freeze. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).