Hearty, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor — this classic ground beef casserole is the kind of dinner that disappears fast. It’s budget-friendly, easy to assemble, and always a hit with family and friends. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, and meal prep
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta)
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar or mozzarella
- 8 oz egg noodles (or any pasta)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil noodles in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet.
Cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Sauces
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 5 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Make the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, mix sour cream and cottage cheese.
Optional: add a pinch of salt and paprika.
5. Assemble the Casserole
In a greased baking dish (9×13):
- Layer half the noodles
- Spread the creamy mixture
- Add half the meat sauce
- Add remaining noodles
- Top with remaining meat sauce
- Finish with shredded cheese
6. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
🍽 Serve With
- A green salad
- Garlic bread
- Pickles or coleslaw
