Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to make and sure to please the whole family, look no further than this Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe. Combining tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, egg noodles, and plenty of cheese, this casserole is the perfect one-pan dinner. It’s ideal for weeknight meals, potlucks, or anytime you're craving a cozy, home-cooked dish. Let's dive into the recipe and explore some variations and tips to make it even more delicious.

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What is Beef Noodle Casserole?

Beef Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food made by layering egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, a creamy tomato or cheese-based sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s similar to a baked pasta dish but typically uses egg noodles for a slightly different texture. The casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, creating a dish that’s hearty, filling, and full of flavor.

Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Beef Noodle Casserole that serves 6-8 people:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for extra texture)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz egg noodles (or any other pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Ingredients List for Additional Variations

Here are some optional ingredients and variations to customize your Beef Noodle Casserole:

• For extra flavor: Add 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.
• Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
• Healthier version: Use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef and swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt.
• Cheese options: You can use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for extra flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is very versatile, so feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available or your dietary preferences:

1. Ground Beef Substitutes: Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork are great alternatives to ground beef. For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based ground meat or a combination of sautéed mushrooms and lentils.
2. Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
3. Cheese Substitutes: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a different flavor profile. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds a nice, cheesy crust.
4. Tomato Sauce Variations: If you prefer a more robust sauce, try using marinara sauce or adding a can of tomato paste for extra depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Beef Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to make this delicious Beef Noodle Casserole in a few easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the beef as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Add Tomato Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (if using) and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. If you like a richer sauce, add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce at this stage.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

1. First Layer: Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly into the greased baking dish.
2. Second Layer: Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles.
3. Third Layer: Add the remaining noodles on top of the cheese mixture.
4. Fourth Layer: Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
5. Final Layer: Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Beef Noodle Casserole:

1. Overcooking the noodles: Be sure to cook the noodles just until al dente (firm to the bite). Since they’ll continue to cook in the oven, overcooking them beforehand can lead to mushy noodles in the casserole.
2. Not draining the beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Overbaking the casserole: Be careful not to overbake the casserole, as it can dry out the noodles and the cheese. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Although this Beef Noodle Casserole is a rustic, home-style dish, you can still elevate its presentation with a few simple touches.

How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole

1. Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner. Let everyone scoop out their portions and enjoy.
2. Individual Portions: For a neater presentation, spoon the casserole into individual plates or bowls, and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
• Top with Extra Cheese: For the cheese lovers, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving for an extra cheesy finish.

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
2. Freeze for Later: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
3. Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a large crowd or want leftovers, simply double the recipe and bake in two separate dishes. This casserole makes great leftovers and reheats well for lunch or dinner the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef, and it will make the casserole lighter. Ground chicken also works well.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that any other ingredients (like breadcrumbs or sauces) are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its layers of tender noodles, savory beef, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato sauce, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy!

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