Looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights? This Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s topped with melted cheese to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This casserole is versatile, satisfying, and makes great leftovers, too. Keep reading to discover the full recipe, helpful tips, and tasty variations!
What is Beef Noodle Casserole?
Beef Noodle Casserole is a classic American comfort dish that combines ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, all baked together in a casserole dish. It’s often topped with melted cheese and sometimes crunchy toppings like breadcrumbs or crispy onions. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the fact that it uses pantry staples to create a filling meal that can be easily customized. Whether you're feeding a large family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole will not disappoint.
Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready for this simple yet flavorful dish. Here's what you’ll need to make a classic Beef Noodle Casserole:
- Ground beef – 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- Egg noodles – 12 oz wide egg noodles
- Onion – 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Tomato sauce – 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- Sour cream – 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative)
- Cream cheese – 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons butter
- Flour – 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Milk – 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- Beef broth – ½ cup beef broth (optional but adds richness)
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
Substitutions and Variations
You can easily adapt the Beef Noodle Casserole to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try:
- Meat alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're vegetarian, try using crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Pasta options: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use any type of pasta, like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles.
- Cheese choices: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy additions: Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist. You can also skip the cream cheese if you want a slightly less creamy texture.
- Add veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables like peas, carrots, spinach, or bell peppers into the casserole.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the process of making this delicious casserole, step by step. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers amazing results every time.
How to Cook Beef Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Cook the egg noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add onions and garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in the tomato sauce: Add the tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to the beef mixture. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy layer will make the casserole extra rich and delicious.
- Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and beef broth, cooking until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Add a layer of cooked egg noodles on top, followed by a layer of the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of beef and noodles. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to cook the egg noodles until they are just al dente, as they will continue to cook while the casserole bakes. Overcooked noodles can become mushy in the casserole.
- Forgetting to drain the beef: Excess grease from the beef can make the casserole overly greasy, so don’t forget to drain the cooked ground beef before adding it to the dish.
- Too much liquid: Be cautious with adding extra liquids like beef broth or milk. You want the sauce to be creamy but not too runny, or the casserole may turn out soupy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Beef Noodle Casserole is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! With a little bit of creativity, you can make this dish look just as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole
- Portion it out: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve generous portions. This casserole is filling, so plan on serving about 6-8 people depending on portion sizes.
- Serve hot: This dish is best served fresh from the oven when the cheese is still melty and gooey. If you're serving it later, reheat it in the oven to maintain the cheesy texture.
- Pair with sides: Balance the richness of the casserole by pairing it with lighter sides, such as a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole
- Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Crispy topping: For an extra layer of texture, add a crispy topping before the final bake. You can mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter or use crushed Ritz crackers for a golden, crunchy finish.
- Serve in individual dishes: For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole in individual oven-safe dishes or ramekins. This makes it feel more personal and allows for easier portion control.
Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
- Prep ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and when you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Make it healthier: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken, swap full-fat dairy products for low-fat alternatives, and add more vegetables for extra nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole without sour cream?
A: Yes! You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, or use cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even macaroni will work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a little extra cooking time since it will be cold when you put it in the oven.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, Beef Noodle Casserole freezes well. Be sure to freeze it before baking for the best results. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Beef Noodle Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With layers of tender noodles, savory beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight meal, a potluck, or meal prep, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try today, and enjoy the hearty, home-cooked flavors that make this recipe a timeless classic!
PrintBeef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Beef Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food combining seasoned ground beef, egg noodles, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Topped with melted cheese, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or potlucks. It's a filling and delicious meal that the whole family will love, with ingredients you likely have on hand!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Egg noodles
- Tomato sauce
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Cream cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef with diced onions and garlic until browned.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer cooked noodles, beef mixture, and cheese mixture.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a cheesy twist.
- Leftovers reheat well and make great next-day lunches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
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