Company Casserole

Whip up this hearty Company Casserole, a layered delight that combines the richness of cream cheese and marinara with the classic comfort of lasagna noodles and ground beef. This dish is perfect for entertaining or a family dinner, offering a savory and satisfying experience with every forkful.

Get ready to impress your guests with this robust casserole that is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Here’s how to put together this crowd-pleaser with ease.

Mastering the Perfect Company Casserole

This casserole is a fusion of textures and flavors, featuring layers of creamy cheese, savory meat, and tender pasta. Follow these tips to ensure your casserole is a hit every time.

Tips for a Flawless Casserole:

1. Thoroughly Drain Spinach: Make sure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
2. Creamy Cheese Mixture: Blend the cream cheese into the meat while it’s hot to ensure it melts smoothly, integrating beautifully with the spinach.
3. Layering: Ensure each layer is evenly spread for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
4. Cover While Baking: Keep the casserole covered for most of the baking time to ensure it cooks through without drying out the top layer.
5. Golden Top: Remove the foil towards the end of baking to allow the cheese on top to turn golden and bubbly.

Recipe for Company Casserole:

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Equipment: 9×13 inch baking dish, skillet

Embrace the joy of a deliciously layered and baked casserole that’s perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Spinach and Cream Cheese: Stir in the spinach and cream cheese until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined. Set aside.
4. Mix Sauces and Cheeses: In a separate bowl, mix together the marinara sauce, sour cream, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of the prepared dish. Lay out a layer of lasagna noodles. Spread half of the meat mixture over the noodles, then cover with more sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Ready to Enjoy!

This Company Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a comforting, satisfying dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to please any crowd with its delicious layers and creamy, cheesy goodness.

Print