Cook Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Description: This delightful casserole combines the comforting flavors reminiscent of lasagna but offers an easier preparation method, making it a perfect family meal option.
Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
Keywords: Cheese, Meat, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 12 tbsp |
| Lean ground beef | 2 lbs |
| Red bell peppers | 1 1/2 cups |
| Green bell pepper | 1/4 cup |
| Onion | 1/2 |
| Garlic | 2-3 cloves |
| Tomato sauce | 3 cups |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Nonfat yogurt | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Scallions | 5-6, chopped |
| Fresh parsley leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic granules | 1/4 tsp |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 627.7 |
| Total Fat | 34.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 153 mg |
| Sodium | 1042.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 43.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 7.2 g |
| Protein | 36.4 g |
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions, ensuring they are softened yet slightly undercooked. Once done, drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground beef along with the red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat, then add the tomato sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until well combined.
- Gently fold in the cooked noodles until everything is evenly distributed.
- In a medium bowl, blend the cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, half of the scallions, chopped parsley, and the remaining salt, garlic granules, and black pepper until smooth.
- In a greased 9″x13″x2″ baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture on the bottom.
- Spread the entire cheese and sour cream mixture over the noodle layer, smoothing it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining noodle mixture, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese and the rest of the scallions on top.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated 350°F oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling.
- Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
This Wonderful Beef and Noodle Casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, providing warmth and comfort with every bite. Enjoy!