Craving a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner? This Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with tender beef, savory noodles, and rich, creamy flavors, it’s a dish your whole family will love. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and produces mouthwatering results. Ready to dive in? Keep reading to discover how to make this classic comfort dish step-by-step!
What is Beef Noodle Casserole?
Beef Noodle Casserole is a traditional comfort food dish made with ground beef, egg noodles, vegetables, and a creamy or cheesy sauce, all baked together in one dish. The casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its combination of hearty protein, carbs, and veggies, it’s a well-rounded meal that doesn’t require a lot of side dishes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate variations based on your personal preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole
Before we jump into cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this savory dish. Here’s everything to make your Beef Noodle Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Beef Noodle Casserole recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Ground beef substitute: You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
- Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like penne, rotini, or even gluten-free varieties.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a sharp flavor, but you could use mozzarella for a more mellow taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Vegetables: Add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
- Cream of mushroom soup: If you don’t have this on hand, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup also works great.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and maybe even chosen a few variations, it’s time to cook! Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your perfect Beef Noodle Casserole.
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and comes out piping hot.
- Cook the noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente (usually around 5-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: While the noodles are cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Add onions and garlic: To the browned beef, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Season and add tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow everything to simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Mix in the soups and dairy: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until everything is well combined and smooth. Let the mixture heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine with noodles: In a large bowl or directly in the skillet if it’s big enough, toss the cooked egg noodles with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Layer and add cheese: Pour the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Cook Beef Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those who prefer a more detailed guide, here’s a breakdown of the steps to cook Beef Noodle Casserole:
- Prepare all ingredients beforehand: Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and measure out all your spices and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
- Multitask: While the noodles are cooking, brown the beef and prepare the sauce to save time.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Remember to cook the noodles just until al dente. They’ll continue cooking in the oven, so you don’t want them to be too soft initially.
- Taste the sauce: Before combining everything, taste the beef and sauce mixture to adjust the seasoning if needed. Adding a little extra salt, pepper, or herbs can make a big difference in flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common mistakes could make your casserole less than perfect. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Make sure to cook them al dente, so they hold their texture after baking.
- Forgetting to drain the beef: Excess fat from the ground beef can make the casserole greasy. Drain the cooked beef well before adding other ingredients.
- Not seasoning properly: This casserole relies on layers of flavor. Don’t skip out on seasoning the beef, and make sure to taste the sauce before baking to ensure it’s well-balanced.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that your Beef Noodle Casserole is ready to serve, let’s talk about presentation. Though casseroles are inherently homey and comforting, there are still ways to make them look extra appetizing.
- Garnish with herbs: Fresh parsley or chopped chives can brighten up the appearance and add a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Add a side dish: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- Use a nice baking dish: If you’re serving the casserole at a gathering, use a decorative baking dish that can go straight from the oven to the table.
How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole
Beef Noodle Casserole can be served directly from the baking dish. Simply slice it into generous portions using a spatula and plate it up for each guest. It’s a filling dish, so you may not need many side items, but here are a few ideas:
- Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- Serve with a light Caesar or garden salad for a contrast in textures.
- Warm, buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread make great accompaniments to mop up any extra sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole
For special occasions, you can make your Beef Noodle Casserole look extra fancy with these presentation ideas:
- Individual servings: Instead of baking the casserole in one large dish, portion the ingredients into individual ramekins for a more elegant, personal touch.
- Layered look: You can create visible layers of noodles, beef, and cheese for a visually appealing, lasagna-style effect.
- Color contrast: Add colorful veggies like red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on top before baking to give the casserole a more vibrant look.
Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well! After assembling, cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Leftover tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Can I freeze Beef Noodle Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, freeze it before baking, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight and bake.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
Any pasta like penne or rotini can be substituted, or even gluten-free noodles if necessary.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free noodles and ensure your cream soup is gluten-free.
Conclusion
There you have it, a mouthwatering Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe that's sure to satisfy everyone at your dinner table! With easy-to-follow instructions, adaptable ingredients, and make-ahead options, this casserole is a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the delicious combination of tender beef, savory noodles, and creamy, cheesy goodness!
PrintBeef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Beef noodle casserole is a delicious comfort food perfect for family dinners. Combining ground beef, tender egg noodles, and rich tomato sauce, this baked dish is hearty and flavorful. Top it with melted cheese for an extra savory touch. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for all.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Egg noodles
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato sauce
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and sour cream, then remove from heat.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture, and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
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