Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that brings together hearty flavors and cheesy goodness, this Beef Noodle Casserole is just what you need. It’s a delightful dish that marries tender egg noodles with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese for a crowd-pleasing combination that’s both satisfying and straightforward to prepare. Whether you’re making dinner after a long day or feeding a hungry family, this Beef Noodle Casserole will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is key to making this Beef Noodle Casserole truly shine. Each element plays a role in creating layers of flavor, from the hearty beef to the tangy tomatoes and melty cheddar that finishes the dish.

• 12 ounces egg noodles: The perfect tender yet firm base that holds onto all the sauce and cheese wonderfully.
• 2 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing the beef and aromatics, adding a subtle richness.
• 1 1/4 lbs lean ground beef (90% lean): Provides the savory, meaty foundation without excess fat.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once softened with garlic.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: For that irresistible punch of flavor that wakes up the entire dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances all the other ingredients beautifully.
• 16 ounces canned tomato sauce: Gives the casserole a rich, tangy base that holds everything together.
• 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (drained, petite cut preferred): Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to complement the beef and tomato sauce.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The golden, melted topping that brings luscious creaminess and color.
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley: A fresh, bright garnish that finishes the dish elegantly.
• Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. This ensures they’re perfectly al dente, ready to soak up the sauce without turning mushy. While the noodles simmer, don’t forget to preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready for the casserole later.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil before adding the ground beef. Cook the beef for about 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it up with your spatula as it browns evenly. This step creates the foundational savory flavor and juicy texture that makes this Beef Noodle Casserole so satisfying.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is mostly cooked through, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the onion softens and everything becomes fragrant. Don’t rush this step; the sweetness of the onion and punch of garlic build the flavor layers you’ll taste in each bite.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Now stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture. These ingredients bring the rich, tangy tomato base that perfectly complements the hearty ground beef. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste, then let everything mingle together for a minute or two before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Toss in the Noodles

Drain your cooked egg noodles well and add them right to the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce. Gently toss until all noodles are evenly coated and mixed. This ensures every forkful of the Beef Noodle Casserole is bursting with flavor and saucy goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Lightly coat a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the beef and noodle mixture into the pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped parsley across the cheesy surface to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Your Beef Noodle Casserole is now ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley is all you need to brighten up this rich casserole, but feel free to experiment with extra grated Parmesan, a dash of red pepper flakes for a slight kick, or even a few fresh basil leaves for a fragrant twist. Garnishes not only add visual appeal but also layers of flavor that elevate your meal.

Side Dishes

Beef Noodle Casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing side dishes that balance its rich and hearty profile. Consider serving it alongside a vibrant green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or even garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to take your casserole from everyday dinner to special occasion? Serve individual portions in cute ramekins topped with extra cheese or herbs. Or layer the casserole with a mix of different cheeses for a gooey decadence that’s sure to impress. This dish is versatile enough to dress up or keep cozy and casual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef Noodle Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the noodles from drying out. It makes for easy, satisfying lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well, making it a fantastic candidate for meal prep. After assembling but before baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adjusting the time as needed until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Covering the casserole loosely with foil helps prevent the cheese from over-browning. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave, just be mindful to cover to keep moisture locked in.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and hold sauce well, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even macaroni for a fun variation. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushy textures after baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils. Adjust seasoning as needed to maintain those rich, savory flavors that make the Beef Noodle Casserole so comforting.

How spicy is this Beef Noodle Casserole?

This dish is mild and kid-friendly by default, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat. It’s easily customizable to your family’s taste preferences.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

Yes! Assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for busy days when you want dinner ready to pop in the oven.

What cheese works best if I want to try something other than cheddar?

Sharp cheddar has great flavor and melts well, but you can experiment with mozzarella for ooey-gooey stretchiness, Monterey Jack for a mild creaminess, or even a bit of Parmesan for a savory finish. Combining cheeses also creates wonderful complexity.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Noodle Casserole has earned a prime spot in my recipe collection because it’s simply delicious, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. The comforting combination of noodles, beef, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese is a perfect way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. I hope you give it a try soon — it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, every single time.

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