Ingredients

2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
2 cups chopped onions
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 lb mushroom , sliced
2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon caraway seed
1 bunch fresh spinach or bag fresh spinach , coarsely chopped and tough stems removed
1 container cottage cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or 2 teaspoons dried dill
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
1 1/3 cups shredded cheddar cheese , divided
Russian style macaroni casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter night. The dish features elbow macaroni mixed with sautéed mushrooms, onions, cabbage, and spinach, and then baked to perfection with cottage cheese and cheddar cheese. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover pasta and vegetables, and it's easy to make with common pantry ingredients. While it's not the healthiest dish due to the high sodium and saturated fat content, it's sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling full and cozy.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2.Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions and drain.
3.In a large skillet, melt butter or margarine and sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until onions are tender.
4.Add mushrooms, green cabbage, salt, and caraway seeds, and stir in chopped spinach.
5.In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cottage cheese, dill, and ground pepper. Stir in onion mixture.
6.Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7.Bake for 25 minutes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

PROS

Easy to make, comforting and filling.
Great way to use up leftover pasta and vegetables.
Provides a good source of protein, calcium, and fiber.

CONS

High in sodium and saturated fat.
May not be suitable for those on a low-fat or low-sodium diet.
May not be suitable for vegetarians or those with a lactose intolerance.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Macaroni casserole provides a good source of protein from the cottage cheese and fiber from the vegetables, which can help promote feelings of fullness and aid in digestion. Additionally, the dish can provide a good amount of calcium from the cheese and spinach, which can help support bone health.

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