Description
Hearty beef noodle casserole delivers comfort through layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese. Creamy sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping complete this satisfying midwestern classic that home cooks appreciate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
Noodles and Dairy:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) egg noodles
- 2 cups (226 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) sour cream
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese
Seasonings and Vegetables:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook egg noodles following package directions, then thoroughly drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown ground beef with finely chopped onions and minced garlic until meat is fully cooked.
- Pour tomato sauce into the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; let the mixture simmer for 7-8 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk sour cream and cream cheese until completely smooth and well incorporated.
- Grease a casserole dish and create layers starting with cooked noodles as the base, followed by the seasoned beef mixture, then spread the creamy cheese blend evenly across the top.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire casserole surface to create a golden, melty topping.
- Place uncovered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese becomes fully melted and develops a slightly crispy, bubbly texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and create a healthier version of the casserole.
- Swap regular egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for dietary restrictions.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, allowing flavors to meld together more intensely.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg