Three Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining ground beef, noodles, and three types of cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners with rich flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 4 cups noodles ⓘ
- 1 cup cream-style cottage cheese ⓘ
- 8 oz soft cream cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sour cream ⓘ
- 1/3 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked mixture.
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, garlic salt, and pepper into the meat mixture.
- Prepare noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Spread half of the cooked noodles in an 11 x 7-inch glass casserole dish.
- Top with half of the meat sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture over the meat sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, meat sauce, cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese in place of cottage cheese. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. To enhance the flavor, add Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can help streamline the process. This dish can be made ahead and frozen for later, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Three Cheese Casserole with a side salad for a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread complements it well, providing a crunchy texture. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a light soup. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, and it will surely be a hit alongside **Easy Spaghetti Skillet**.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. Ensure it's hot all the way through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Cheese Casserole contains roughly 411 calories, with 27g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1974mg per serving (86% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. If baking from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Any medium-sized noodles like egg noodles or rotini work well in this casserole. They hold the sauce nicely and provide a good texture. Avoid using thin noodles like angel hair, as they may become mushy. Feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier alternative.
Can I freeze the Three Cheese Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and store it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to ensure it heats thoroughly. This is an excellent option for meal planning or busy nights, ensuring a satisfying dinner is always on hand.
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).