Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, delicious, and family-friendly casserole that combines savory beef, tender noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce? This Beef Noodle Casserole is the perfect choice! With simple ingredients like ground beef, noodles, and a flavorful sauce baked to golden perfection, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a great go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners. Stick around for the full recipe and tips to make this comforting casserole absolutely irresistible!

this Recipe

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What is Beef Noodle Casserole?

Beef Noodle Casserole is a baked dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy, tomato-based sauce, all topped with melty cheese. It’s similar to lasagna or a baked ziti, but with a simpler, more rustic presentation. This casserole is a one-dish meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a favorite for busy families and anyone craving comfort food.

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Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this tasty casserole:

Main Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef: 1 pound (80% lean works best for flavor)
2. Egg Noodles: 12 ounces (wide or medium-sized)
3. Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
4. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
5. Tomato Sauce: 2 cups (or one 15-ounce can)
6. Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces), drained
7. Sour Cream: 1 cup
8. Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
9. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (divided)
10. Beef Broth: ½ cup
11. Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
12. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing the onion)
13. Paprika: 1 teaspoon
14. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
15. Salt and Pepper: To taste
16. Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)

These simple ingredients combine to create a rich, creamy, and comforting casserole that everyone will love.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Noodle Casserole recipe is flexible, so feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

1. Ground Beef: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground sausage for a different flavor.
2. Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni. Gluten-free pasta works well too.
3. Cheese: Cheddar cheese is great for flavor, but feel free to add or substitute mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a cheesier twist.
4. Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: You can lighten the recipe by using low-fat versions of both, or swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for added protein.
5. Vegetables: Add extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a more nutritious dish.
6. Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this Beef Noodle Casserole step-by-step:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
2. Drain the Noodles: Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Push the beef to the side of the skillet and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

1. Add the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

1. Mix the Creamy Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Set aside.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Spread half of the cooked noodles in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by dollops of the cream cheese mixture.
   • Repeat with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cream cheese mixture.
2. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup) evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

1. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

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How to Cook Beef Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the key steps to making this Beef Noodle Casserole:

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles until al dente, then drain.
2. Brown the Beef: Sauté the beef, onion, and garlic, then add tomato sauce and seasonings.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Mix cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Layer noodles, beef mixture, and cheese mixture in a baking dish.
5. Top and Bake: Sprinkle with cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Noodles: Be sure to cook the noodles just until al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking them beforehand.
2. Not Draining the Beef: After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain any excess fat to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Skipping the Simmering Step: Allow the beef mixture to simmer with the tomato sauce and seasonings. This enhances the flavor and makes the dish more robust.
4. Overloading on Cheese: While cheese is delicious, adding too much can make the casserole too heavy or greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for the best balance of flavors.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole:

• Portions: Slice the casserole into squares or scoop out individual servings with a large spoon.
• Side Dishes: Pair this casserole with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole:

• Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Serving Dish: Serve in a rustic or colorful casserole dish for a cozy, family-friendly presentation.

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Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be made a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
• Freezing: Beef Noodle Casserole freezes well! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking or freeze leftovers after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Beef Noodle Casserole with ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner option and works just as well in this casserole. You can also use ground chicken if you prefer.

Can I freeze Beef Noodle Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

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Conclusion

This Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a versatile, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Whether you make it as written or customize it to your taste, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a hearty, delicious dish that everyone will love!

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