Martha’s Company Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious blend of cheeses and sour cream. It’s a great make-ahead dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2/3 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Egg Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth. Stir in the finely chopped green onions.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer half of the cooked egg noodles in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Add the remaining noodles on top.
- Pour the ground beef and tomato sauce mixture over the noodles, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions, if desired.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the ground beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow extra baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente before assembling the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using a plant-based meat substitute or adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Q: Can I use low-fat dairy products? A: Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream to reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Martha’s Company Casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. With its layers of creamy cheese, tender noodles, and savory beef, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and sure to delight. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this casserole is a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of Martha’s Company Casserole, a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
