Beef Noodle Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a rich, cheesy topping. It’s a classic weeknight meal that’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, this casserole is sure to satisfy any appetite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

egg noodlesground beefoniongarliccloveolive oiltomato saucetomato pasteItalian seasoningdried basilsalt and peppersour creamcream cheesecheddar cheesemozzarella cheesefresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.

Add the cooked noodles to the meat sauce and stir to combine.

Layer half the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream mixture on top, then add the remaining noodle mixture.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Top with crushed crackers or French-fried onions for added crunch.
Substitute ricotta for cream cheese if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Beef Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely, just wrap tightly before freezing and label with the date.

Can I use different pasta?
Yes, but sturdy pasta like rotini or penne works best.

What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are traditional, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or provolone.

How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?
No, bake uncovered so the cheese melts and turns golden.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, it’s a great substitute for a tangy twist.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Slightly undercook them before baking—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Can I add a breadcrumb topping?
Yes, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle before baking.

Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely! The cheesy, mild flavors are usually a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Beef Noodle Casserole is the perfect go-to meal when you need something easy, filling, and flavorful. It’s ideal for busy nights, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving classic comfort food. With its rich layers and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

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