Description
This Cheesy Beef and Noodle Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheeses with tender egg noodles, this casserole offers rich flavors and creamy texture baked to perfection in just 50 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)
Cheese and Cream Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the noodles: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste and slightly bubbles without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine casserole components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef and tomato sauce mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well to evenly coat the noodles and beef with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes portioning easier.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding cooked vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can increase nutritional value and flavor.
