Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than Beef Noodle Casserole. This classic casserole combines tender egg noodles with seasoned ground beef, a savory tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese. It's an all-in-one dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just need some good old-fashioned comfort food. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

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What is Beef Noodle Casserole?

Beef Noodle Casserole is a traditional American comfort food dish made with cooked egg noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese, all baked together to create a delicious, cheesy casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a great way to feed a family or bring to a potluck. This casserole is warm, filling, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile and budget-friendly meal. Whether you grew up eating this dish or are trying it for the first time, you’ll love the combination of flavors and textures.

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Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole

To make this comforting Beef Noodle Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz egg noodles – Classic wide egg noodles are ideal for this dish.
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef – Provides a savory, hearty base for the casserole.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor and texture to the beef mixture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – Adds texture and a slight acidity.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor with herbs like oregano and basil.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and warmth.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the casserole for gooey goodness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that perfect, stretchy cheese pull.

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty finish.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crispy topping (optional but recommended).
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – For mixing with breadcrumbs to create a golden crust.

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Substitutions and Variations

Beef Noodle Casserole is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of ways to adjust the recipe to fit your preferences. Here are some substitution ideas and variations:

• Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based meat or crumbled tofu.
• Pasta: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
• Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheeses. You can swap cheddar and mozzarella for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
• Vegetables: Add some veggies to make the dish more nutritious. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work well in this casserole.
• Creamy Version: For an even creamier casserole, add ½ cup of cream cheese or ricotta to the beef mixture before baking.
• Spicy: If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Beef Noodle Casserole from scratch:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the noodles and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Tomato Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Add the Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream, mixing until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce. The sour cream adds a creamy, tangy element to the beef mixture.

Step 7: Combine the Noodles and Beef Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the noodle and beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Add the remaining noodle mixture, then top with the remaining cheese.

Step 9: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs (if using), grated parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delicious crunchy texture to the dish.

Step 10: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. If the top isn't golden after baking, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 11: Let it Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to make this Beef Noodle Casserole:

1. Cook the noodles and set aside.
2. Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic.
3. Make the sauce by adding tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings to the beef.
4. Stir in sour cream for creaminess.
5. Combine the noodles and beef mixture, and layer with cheese in the baking dish.
6. Add the breadcrumb topping for a crispy finish (optional).
7. Bake until bubbly and golden, then let it rest before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente. Overcooked noodles will become mushy after baking.
• Not draining excess fat: Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Forgetting to season: Season each layer—beef, sauce, and noodles—to ensure the dish is flavorful throughout.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Beef Noodle Casserole can make all the difference in making it feel special. Here are some ideas for serving and garnishing:

How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole:

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, cut the casserole into even portions and plate each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Serve with Bread: Pair the casserole with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Add a Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the casserole.

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Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef if you want a lighter version of the casserole. You can also use ground chicken.

Can I make Beef Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This makes it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

What pasta works best for this casserole?

Egg noodles are traditional in Beef Noodle Casserole, but you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy.

Can I freeze Beef Noodle Casserole?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

What can I serve with Beef Noodle Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. With tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, a tangy tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s sure to satisfy any crowd. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, or stick to the classic recipe for a comforting meal that’s guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a delicious, warm Beef Noodle Casserole that’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation!

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