Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Beef Noodle Casserole is a hearty and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner! Imagine tender noodles, flavorful ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, all baked in a rich and creamy sauce with a generous topping of melted cheese. This recipe is easy to customize and sure to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats every noodle and piece of beef.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The ground beef, vegetables, and herbs create a flavorful and satisfying base for the casserole.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily swap out the meat, pasta, or cheese to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or freezing for later.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides a flavorful and hearty base for the casserole.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Contributes a fragrant and savory kick.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch.
• Dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Beef broth: Creates a rich and flavorful sauce.
• Heavy cream: Adds a creamy texture and richness.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a depth of umami flavor.
• Egg noodles: A classic pasta shape that’s perfect for casseroles. You can substitute with your favorite pasta variety.
• Sour cream: Adds a tangy and creamy element to the sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp cheesy flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor.
• Olive oil: Used for browning the beef and vegetables.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Beef

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cook until the noodles are al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish and Bake

Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Mix in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve

This Beef Noodle Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Beef Noodle Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats would work well in this recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni would be delicious substitutes.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier? Definitely! Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

This Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and hearty meat sauce, it’s sure to become a new family favorite!

Print