Name: Delicious Beef Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 oz egg noodles; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 15 oz tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; Fresh chopped parsley (optional); ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional); 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

If you’re searching for a meal that promises not only heartwarming comfort but also mouthwatering flavors, our Beef Noodle Casserole is just what you need! This delightful dish combines the comforting texture of tender egg noodles with the rich taste of savory ground beef, enhanced by a tangy tomato sauce and topped with luscious melted cheddar cheese. It’s everything you love about classic comfort food, wrapped into one satisfying casserole that both kids and adults will rave about.

Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, and family gatherings, this Beef Noodle Casserole offers the perfect solution when you’re pressed for time but still want to serve something delicious. By utilizing common pantry ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, you can whip up a hearty meal in no time. Plus, it’s an excellent candidate for meal prep—make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge or freezer for whenever cravings hit!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Noodle Casserole

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, gathering everyone around the table with its familiar and delightful flavors.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can create this delicious dish without breaking a sweat.
Meal Prep Friendly: The casserole stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and reheat when needed!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or sides!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into the delightful task of making the Beef Noodle Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to reach the ideal temperature while you cook. Set out a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. You’ll also need a large pot for boiling water, a colander for draining the noodles, and a large skillet to cook the ground beef and sauce.

Other recommended tools include a chef’s knife for dicing the onion and garlic, a wooden spoon for mixing, and measuring cups and spoons for precision with the ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready will streamline the process, making your cooking experience more enjoyable!

Ingredients

12 oz egg noodles
1 lb ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional)
1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

To kick off your Beef Noodle Casserole adventure, start by bringing a sizable pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 12 oz of egg noodles and cook them until they reach an al dente texture. This usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Afterward, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside while you prepare the beef sauce. This timing ensures the noodles maintain their perfect consistency when baked.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Next, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your pound of ground beef. Add the beef to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to break it up as it browns, ensuring even cooking. After it’s fully cooked and browned, it’s crucial to drain any excess grease to maintain the ideal flavor balance for your casserole.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Sauce

Now that your beef is cooked, stir in the diced yellow onion and let it sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds to release its aromatic qualities. To this mixture, incorporate the 15 oz of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this flavorful mixture to simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, giving the flavors time to marry deliciously.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Once your beef sauce is ready, take a large bowl and mix the cooked egg noodles with the beef sauce. To enrich the dish further, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mix and stir until everything is evenly combined. This is where the comforting heartiness of the casserole truly starts to develop!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grab the greased 9×13-inch baking dish and carefully transfer the noodle and beef mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so every bite can enjoy the lusciousness of this casserole. To finish it off, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top; this will create that glorious golden crust while baking!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes before removing the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. This step ensures you achieve that delightful crispiness on top, just like what you’d find in the best casserole dishes.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Finally, after baking, let your Beef Noodle Casserole sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This brief rest will allow the flavors to settle and make for easier slicing and serving. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost.
Spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure to drain the noodles properly so your casserole doesn’t turn out watery.
If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding the optional sour cream or cream cheese into the noodle mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a mixed green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair it with a bold red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and reheat when desired for easy meals.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, but adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave. To revive the flavors, add a splash of water or broth before reheating.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables into the dish for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Beef Noodle Casserole represents the epitome of comfort food that’s both easy to make and utterly satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to delight your family and friends alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal planning. We encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below, experiment with variations, and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!