Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe: A Classic American Comfort Food
Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make? Beef Noodle Casserole is a classic American comfort food that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked egg noodles and a rich creamy sauce. This casserole is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a dish to bring to a family gathering. Follow this simple, step-by-step recipe for a satisfying dinner the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Noodle Casserole
- Quick and easy: perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
- Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Make Ahead: Easily prepared in advance and reheated for a delicious dinner any night of the week.
Key Ingredients
To make the perfect beef noodle casserole, you’ll need the following:
- Egg noodles: The perfect base for this casserole; They cook quickly and hold up well with sauces.
- Ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or regular ground beef for a tastier flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: Adds depth and flavor to a dish.
- Tomato Sauce: For a tangy, savory base that coats the noodles beautifully.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the richness of the beef and tomato sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese: A must for any casserole! The cheddar melts perfectly and adds a nice, cheesy topping.
- Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, paprika and Italian seasoning to enhance flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 6-8 minutes. Remove and keep aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up when cooked. Once browned, skim off any excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add chopped onion and garlic to the same pan. Cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Combine the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cooked onion and garlic. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Add the Sour Cream
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the cream. This will give the sauce a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the flavorful beef.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and beef sauce mixture. Transfer it to a greased casserole dish. Top with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let beef noodle casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps firm up the casserole and makes it easier to scoop out.
Tips for the Best Beef Noodle Casserole
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and onion add more flavor than powdered alternatives.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Lightly undercooked noodles will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing the sauce without absorbing it.
- Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs with melted butter before baking.
- Make it your own: Customize this dish by sneaking in veggies like peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for some extra nutrition.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. It also freezes well—just cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to cook it, bake it from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 3 g
The Result
Beef Noodle Casserole is a timeless dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting and creamy texture that everyone loves. With its quick preparation and universal appeal, it’s sure to become a staple in your food rotation. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy real American comfort food!
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