Schoodle Bake
Hearty casserole blending melty mozzarella, savory ground beef, pasta, and tangy cottage cheese, topped with rich Ragu—comfort food perfect for family dinners or game nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked spiral macaroni with fried hamburger in a bowl.
- Add cottage cheese and beaten egg, stirring to combine.
- Pour half of the Ragu spaghetti sauce into the mixture and mix well.
- Transfer the combined mixture to a casserole dish.
- Pour the remaining Ragu sauce over the top and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to set before serving.
- Serve with garlic bread on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of ricotta cheese along with the cottage cheese. You can substitute the Ragu spaghetti sauce with homemade marinara if you prefer a fresher flavor. This recipe is versatile; for a vegetarian option, replace the hamburger with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can also work well.
Serving Suggestions
This Schoodle Bake pairs beautifully with garlic bread on the side, which complements the cheesy, savory flavors of the dish. A crisp salad, like Broccoli Salad, can provide a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, on top before serving to enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, heating at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Schoodle Bake contains roughly 516 calories, with 32g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for added flavor. Mixing cheeses can also create a more complex taste. Just keep in mind that mozzarella provides a nice stretchiness, which is characteristic of this dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Schoodle Bake, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the Ragu sauce or mixing in some diced jalapeños with the macaroni. You could also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of hamburger for a flavorful twist.
Is it possible to freeze the Schoodle Bake?
Yes, you can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option!
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).