Looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that satisfies your hunger and brings comfort to the table? Beef noodle casserole is the perfect meal that checks all the boxes. It's a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and special family gatherings. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow, and its versatility allows for plenty of creativity. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to make the ultimate beef noodle casserole!
What is Beef Noodle Casserole?
Beef noodle casserole is a baked dish combining ground beef, egg noodles, and a savory sauce made with a blend of vegetables, seasonings, and cheese. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the ease with which you can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. It’s rich, flavorful, and has that warm, comforting appeal that makes it an all-time family favorite.
Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for the base recipe:
- 1 pound of ground beef: You can use any type of ground beef, but an 80/20 mix (80% lean, 20% fat) gives the best balance of flavor and texture.
- 8 oz. of egg noodles: Egg noodles provide the perfect base for this casserole, as they hold up well and absorb flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds depth and a bit of sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives an extra layer of savory flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz.) of diced tomatoes: Provides moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
- 1 can (10 oz.) of condensed cream of mushroom soup: A creamy binder for the casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tanginess to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melted cheese on top creates that ooey-gooey finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Optional: chopped parsley or fresh herbs for garnish.
Additional Ingredients for Beef Noodle Casserole
- ½ cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables: For added nutrition and color.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the beefy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet touch to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme: These herbs pair perfectly with beef and vegetables.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the greatest things about beef noodle casserole is how adaptable it is. If you’re missing an ingredient or want to change things up, here are some suggestions:
- Ground beef: You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian version.
- Egg noodles: Not a fan of egg noodles? Substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Cream of mushroom soup: If you're not a fan, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.
- Sour cream: Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat substitute that still adds creaminess.
- Cheese: Switch up the cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for some added heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your beef noodle casserole? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious dish that everyone will love.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings and Vegetables: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), frozen peas, and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef mixture, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like the top crispy, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
How to Cook Beef Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. This includes dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and shredding the cheese.
- Cook the Noodles and Brown the Beef: Cook the egg noodles and brown the beef in separate steps to save time. This will ensure everything is ready to go when it's time to assemble the casserole.
- Combine the Components: Mix the cooked beef, noodles, soup, sour cream, and any additional vegetables or seasonings in a large bowl for even distribution.
- Bake Until Perfection: The key is baking the casserole long enough to let the flavors meld and the cheese to become bubbly and golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: Make sure you cook the noodles until just al dente. If they’re too soft, they may become mushy after baking.
- Forgetting to drain the beef: If you don't drain the beef after browning, the casserole can become too greasy.
- Too much liquid: Be careful with adding extra liquids like stock or water. The casserole should be creamy but not soupy.
- Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings before baking. A well-seasoned casserole will be much more flavorful.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Want to elevate your beef noodle casserole? Here are a few tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or basil on top to add a pop of green and fresh flavor.
- Serve in Individual Portions: Use mini casserole dishes for individual servings to create a more upscale presentation.
- Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:
- Green Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
- Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread on the side is perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort meal, serve the casserole alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole
- Family-Style Serving: Serve the casserole straight from the dish at the center of the table, letting everyone help themselves.
- Individual Plates: For a more elegant presentation, plate individual portions and garnish with herbs and a sprinkle of cheese.
Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if it's cold from the fridge.
- Freezing: Beef noodle casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make beef noodle casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
3. Can I freeze beef noodle casserole? Absolutely! Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
4. What other cheeses can I use? Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even gouda would be great alternatives to cheddar.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value.
Conclusion
Beef noodle casserole is a comforting, versatile dish that’s easy to make and customize to suit your taste. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that this casserole has to offer!
PrintBeef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Beef Noodle Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish made with tender egg noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. It's a perfect comfort food recipe for busy weeknights, combining rich flavors with simple ingredients. Great for meal prep and easy to customize with vegetables or herbs. Serve this cheesy casserole as a filling family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Egg noodles
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato sauce
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef with chopped onion and garlic.
- Stir in tomato sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Mix noodles with sour cream and layer them in a casserole dish.
- Add beef mixture on top and sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Add vegetables like peas or spinach for more nutrition.
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720 mg
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