Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Prepare the Angel Hair Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Mix in the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Layer
- Combine the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta, followed by the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and meat sauce.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses.
5. Bake
- Bake Until Bubbly: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set up.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest texture, opt for full-fat versions of the sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream cheese.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Customize the Meat Sauce: Add extra flavor to the meat sauce by stirring in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicy twist.
- Swap the Pasta: If you don’t have angel hair pasta, substitute with another long pasta like spaghetti or linguine.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Why You’ll Love Angel Beef Casserole
- Hearty and Filling: With layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, this dish is incredibly satisfying and perfect for a comforting meal.
- Easy to Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked later, making it great for meal prepping or entertaining.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of pasta and cheese make it a hit with children, making dinnertime less of a struggle.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Protein: The ground beef and dairy provide plenty of protein, helping to keep you full and support muscle health.
- Calcium from Dairy: The cheese and sour cream offer a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Tomatoes for Antioxidants: The tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that promotes heart health.
Conclusion
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you crave a hearty meal. Its combination of creamy cheese layers, savory meat sauce, and tender pasta is truly irresistible. This casserole brings the classic flavors of lasagna into a simpler, more approachable form, without compromising on taste. Give this easy-to-make recipe a try, and let it become a new family favorite that you’ll make again and again!
