If you are craving a comforting, all-in-one meal that brings together rich flavors and hearty textures, look no further than this Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe. It’s the ultimate cozy dish that combines tender seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and creamy cheeses baked until golden and bubbling, creating a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding the family on a weeknight or serving friends on the weekend, this recipe hits every note, making it an instant favorite that you’ll want to return to time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role, from the savory beef and fresh vegetables to the creamy cheese and flavorful seasonings. Together, they create layers of taste and texture that make this dish truly unforgettable.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that delivers rich flavor and satisfying richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and aromatic undertones.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Provides a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of herbal earthiness that complements the beef.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Adds moisture while deepening the meaty taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce for the noodles.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Intensifies the savory notes with a tangy kick.
- 10 ounces egg noodles (or your choice of noodles): The comforting carb that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess with a slight tang to balance richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Delivers sharpness and a golden crust when baked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding smoothness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens up the dish with color and fresh flavor.
How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Brown Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and brown thoroughly, cooking until no pink remains. This foundational step builds the rich, meaty flavor essential to the casserole. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Season
Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper directly into the skillet with the beef. Cook everything together until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the dried oregano along with salt and black pepper to taste. This seasoning blend infuses the dish with a wonderful depth that wakes up every bite.
Step 3: Simmer with Liquids
Pour the low-sodium beef broth and heavy cream into the skillet, then add the Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the creaminess to form a luscious base for the noodles. This step is key to ensuring your casserole stays wonderfully moist and full of flavor.
Step 4: Cook Noodles
Add the egg noodles directly into the simmering sauce, stirring occasionally. Cook just until they reach al dente, tender but still with a slight bite. The noodles soak up all the wonderful liquid, becoming infused with the savory sauce that makes this Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 5: Add Dairy
Lower the heat and mix in the sour cream until the sauce becomes extra creamy. Then, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt fully into the mixture. This creates that signature cheesy richness that delights everyone around the table.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top for that classic golden-brown crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and perfectly browned. This final cooking step rounds out the flavors and gives the casserole its inviting, irresistible appearance.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
When the baking time is up, remove the casserole and let it cool slightly. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness that balances the rich, creamy dish. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a simple yet perfect way to finish your Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe, adding a refreshing pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy golden top. You might also consider a dash of cracked black pepper or even some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands tall on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables adds welcome crunch and balances the richness. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette is also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce. For a lighter twist, roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans harmonize beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. For gatherings, portion it out family-style straight from the baking dish to create that warm,-homey vibe. You can even top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa verde for a fun fusion flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious meal for later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply cover the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through, around 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through heating to ensure even warmth. Adding a splash of broth or cream before reheating can help maintain creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles in this Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional for their texture and ability to hold the sauce, you can swap in rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. This way, the casserole stays just as flavorful without the gluten.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly since those proteins tend to cook faster and can be leaner.
What can I add to make the casserole more vegetable-packed?
Feel free to toss in chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach along with the peppers and onions. These veggies cook down nicely and add extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
How can I make the cheese topping extra crispy?
Try mixing the shredded cheddar and Parmesan with a little panko breadcrumb before sprinkling on top. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy layers underneath perfectly.
Final Thoughts
I hope you are just as excited to try this Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe as I am to share it with you. It’s a brilliant comfort food that’s easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simply indulging yourself. Once you have this casserole on your table, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes for cozy, satisfying meals that warm both heart and home.
Print
Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Beef Noodle Casserole combines tender ground beef, sautéed vegetables, creamy sauces, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. With layers of savory flavors and comforting textures, this casserole makes a satisfying and easy-to-make meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
Seasonings and Liquids
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Pasta and Dairy
- 10 ounces egg noodles (or your choice of noodles)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Brown Beef: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables and Season: To the browned beef in the skillet, add 1 chopped large onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 diced medium red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Stir in ½ teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer with Liquids: Pour in 2 cups low-sodium beef broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Cook Noodles: Add 10 ounces egg noodles (or your preferred noodles) directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente.
- Add Dairy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup sour cream until fully incorporated. Next, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) and half of the grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup), stirring until the cheeses melt into the sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the entire skillet mixture into a baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Feel free to use any noodles you prefer such as penne or fusilli if egg noodles are unavailable.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes during the seasoning step.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
