Description
Hearty Hubby Delight Casserole is a cheesy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with layers of pasta, seasoned meat, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this easy-to-make recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing dish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess grease. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Creamy Layer: In a bowl, mix sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer half the pasta, spread the creamy mixture over it, top with half the meat sauce, and sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella and cheddar. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Use spicy sausage or add jalapeños for heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Different Cheeses: Try gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy casserole, easy baked pasta, family dinner, comfort food recipe, meal prep casserole