Description
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!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Protein: 20 g