Wanda'S Company Casserole
A comforting casserole combining flavorful turkey, ham, and cheesy goodness with pasta and mushrooms, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the flat spaghetti or noodles to the boiling water.
- Cover the pot and turn off the heat. Let the noodles stand for 20 minutes until tender.
- In the meantime, sauté chopped onion and mushrooms in a small amount of margarine until softened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, creamed cottage cheese, chopped turkey or chicken, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the cheese and meat mixture.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with additional cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream or substituting with Greek yogurt. You can also use leftover cooked turkey or chicken to save time. If you want a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. This dish is versatile, making it a great option when browsing more American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots. It’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, and can even be enjoyed as a hearty lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it's heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wanda'S Company Casserole contains roughly 719 calories, with 53g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), calcium (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2959mg per serving (129% 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 different types of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute flat spaghetti with other types of pasta such as penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you are cooking it straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Wanda's Company Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding extra time as 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).