Beef and Noodle Casserole
Warm up your weeknights with this comforting Beef and Noodle Casserole, a family-style dish featuring tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for cozy dinners, delivering hearty flavors that everyone will love.
Why Beef and Noodle Casserole?
This casserole combines classic comfort food elements—savory beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness—in a one-dish meal that’s both satisfying and simple. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, make-ahead meals, or feeding a crowd, with a versatile flavor profile that pairs well with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
• 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred for a healthier option): Provides a hearty base.
• 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked al dente: Adds tender, chewy texture.
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option): For creamy richness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup): Forms the savory sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety): For a melty topping.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory flavor.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Balances the dish.
• Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh garnish.
Equipment
• Large pot: For boiling noodles.
• Colander: To drain noodles.
• Large skillet: For cooking beef and onions.
• Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
• Oven: For final baking.
• Spatula or spoon: For mixing and serving.
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 6–8 minutes). Drain in a colander and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns, until fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef-noodle mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
5. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side salad or your favorite vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Noodle Casserole
• Al Dente Noodles: Cook noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheese for a healthier version.
• Flavor Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready, adding 5–10 minutes if cold.
FAQs
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, covered. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I Freeze Beef and Noodle Casserole?
Yes, freeze the unbaked or baked casserole (without cheese topping) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add cheese, and bake as directed.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
Pair with a fresh salad using kale, rocket, or radishes from Jean Baptiste’s late September planting guide. Serve with appetizers like Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs, Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread, or Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip with Perfect Cracker Recipe. Complement with desserts like Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cups, Cherry Cheesecake Trifle, or Midnight Fudge Cake. It pairs well with mains like Marry Me Chicken or Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Use dairy-free sour cream, cream of mushroom soup (or a homemade vegan version), and plant-based cheese. Ensure the egg noodles are dairy-free.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles and use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or a homemade alternative with gluten-free flour.
Nutritional Information
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 420 kcal
• Servings: 6 servings
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
Conclusion
Beef and Noodle Casserole is a cozy, family-friendly dish that brings together tender noodles, savory beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness in one comforting package. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Serve it up and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love!