Description
Dairyland Casserole is a comforting layered pasta dish combining tender egg noodles, savory ground beef in a tomato sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is a perfect family meal with rich flavors and a cheesy golden top.
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Noodles and Butter
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Beef Mixture
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dairy Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cook Onions and Beef: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, then drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the two cans of tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly throughout the beef mixture.
- Layer Noodles and Beef: Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spoon the beef mixture over the noodles, gently spreading it to cover. Top with the remaining noodles to form the next layer.
- Prepare Dairy Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sour cream and cottage cheese, mixing well until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble and Top: Spoon the creamy dairy mixture over the layered noodles and beef, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat or low-fat dairy products.
- You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or macaroni.
- Make sure to drain the cooked ground beef well to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- Optional: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dairyland Casserole, comfort food, casserole recipe, beef casserole, cheesy casserole, baked pasta dish, ground beef casserole
