Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. When I first tried this classic casserole, I was amazed at how easy it comes together but still tastes like something that took hours to make. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without a long list of complicated steps.

You’ll find that this Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe works beautifully for feeding a crowd, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck. The combination of seasoned beef, tender noodles, creamy cheese layers, and rich pasta sauce makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, the way the flavors meld is seriously comforting—my family goes crazy for it every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in the Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe are simple but come together in a way that’s totally satisfying. I recommend fresh onions and good quality pasta sauce to really boost the flavor.

• Lean ground beef: Choose 90% lean or leaner for less grease but plenty of flavor.
• Diced onion: Adds savory sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
• Black pepper: A classic seasoning that rounds out the beef nicely.
• Garlic powder: Gives a subtle garlic punch without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds a lovely almost Mediterranean note.
• Beef broth: Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful while cooking the noodles.
• Egg noodles: These tender pasta work perfectly to soak up all the savory juices.
• Pasta sauce (jarred): I prefer a good quality sauce; half goes under the noodles, half on top.
• Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sauce.
• Sour cream: Works with cottage cheese to create that luscious, smooth layer.
• Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and a bit of nutty sharpness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, golden topping.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Feel free to swap ingredients depending on your mood or what’s in your fridge.

• Use ground turkey or chicken: I’ve made this with ground turkey for a lighter option—it still comes out tasty and juicy.
• Mix in veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sneak in extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap Italian seasoning for Cajun seasoning to change the flavor profile.
• Dairy-free adjustments: Try a plant-based sour cream and shredded cheese alternative if you want to go dairy-free.

How to Make Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting until it reads “HOT.” Add the lean ground beef and break it up with your spoon or spatula, then toss in the diced onions. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Be sure to drain off any excess grease—that makes a big difference in the final texture and prevents greasiness. Then stir in your salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse that rich flavor base.

Step 2: Add Broth and Noodles

Pour in the beef broth, which will provide moisture and flavor while cooking the noodles. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot to make sure nothing is sticking—this helps avoid the dreaded burn notice on the Instant Pot. Turn off the sauté function before moving on. Now, sprinkle the egg noodles evenly over the beef and broth mixture. Pour half of the pasta sauce over the noodles to help keep them from drying out and boost flavor.

Step 3: Pressure Cook and Rest

Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Set the manual/pressure cook for 1 minute—not a typo! Because of the noodles absorbing the broth, the resting time after pressure cooking is just as important. When the cooking time ends, let the pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes—this allows the noodles to finish cooking perfectly without overdoing it. Then carefully move the valve to venting and remove the lid.

Step 4: Add Creamy Cheese Layer and Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sour cream, and shredded parmesan cheese until combined. Spoon this creamy mixture evenly over the noodles right inside the pot. Then spread the remaining pasta sauce on top to create that classic layered casserole effect. It’s the mix of these textures and flavors that makes this dish so irresistibly delicious.

Step 5: Bake with Mozzarella for a Golden Finish

If you have an air fryer lid for your Instant Pot, this step is a breeze. Just place the lid on and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top and bake for an additional 3 minutes until golden and bubbly. Don’t have an air fryer lid? No worries! You can place the stainless steel pot in your oven at 350°F for 25 minutes, then add the mozzarella and bake for 5 more minutes. This finishing step really melts everything together and gives you that beautiful, cheesy crust we all crave.

Serve warm, scoop onto plates, and enjoy your delightful, comforting Old Fashioned Company Casserole!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. It adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich casserole. Sometimes a dash of crushed red pepper flakes on the side is a nice touch if you like a little heat.

Side Dishes

We usually enjoy this casserole with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to keep things balanced. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also a hit to soak up all the extra sauce. It’s that kind of meal where comfort meets convenience beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes bake this casserole in individual ramekins — it looks fancy but stays cozy and personal. Another fun idea is layering it in a clear casserole dish so guests can admire those delicious layers before serving. It’s always a conversation starter at gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge; it keeps well for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. When reheated, the casserole retains its creamy texture without drying out.

Freezing

This Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully! I like to portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results to keep the pasta from overcooking.

Reheating

When reheating, I cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, usually 20-25 minutes. This keeps the cheese melty and prevents the noodles from drying out. You can also microwave portions, but watch the time to avoid drying.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Company Casserole Recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s simple, satisfying, and universally loved. I remember making it during my early cooking days and being surprised at how something so easy could taste so good. If you want a no-fail comfort dish that feels like a special family recipe, give this one a try—you’ll be glad you did!

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