Taco Beef Noodle Bake Casserole
A flavorful baked casserole combining seasoned ground beef, noodles, and cheesy cottage cheese mixture, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking hearty, cheesy bites.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. medium noodles ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped ⓘ
- 15 oz. can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water ⓘ
- 1 1/4 oz. package taco seasoning mix ⓘ
- 1 lb. cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sour cream ⓘ
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion ⓘ
- 2 tsp. beef instant bouillon ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. flour ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown beef and onion; stir in tomato sauce, water, and taco seasoning mix.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, flour, mozzarella cheese, and bouillon cube; mix well.
- Add cooked noodles, chopped green onions, and chopped green pepper; blend well.
- Spoon the mixture into a well-greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Top with the meat mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake an additional 2 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding black beans or corn to the mixture for extra flavor and texture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked noodles or substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adjust the taco seasoning to your taste; for a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños. This dish is versatile, so feel free to explore other Mexican recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Taco Beef Noodle Bake with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips and salsa for a crunchy side. For an added touch, top with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado before serving. This hearty casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taco Beef Noodle Bake Casserole contains roughly 546 calories, with 12g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta or cream cheese as a substitute. Ricotta will give a similar texture, while cream cheese will add a richer flavor. Just ensure to blend well to achieve a smooth consistency before adding to the mixture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Taco Beef Noodle Bake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap 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 until bubbly, or bake from frozen, adding extra time.
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).