Hearty & Easy Beef Noodle Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly satisfying Beef Noodle Casserole. This protein-packed dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring tender egg noodles generously coated in a rich, creamy tomato and sour cream sauce, all mixed with juicy ground beef and topped with a blanket of gooey, melted cheddar cheese. Infused with aromatic Italian seasoning, every bite delivers a burst of savory goodness that makes it an instant family favorite.

When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave a deeply comforting meal, this easy beef noodle casserole is the perfect solution. It’s a complete meal in one dish, boasting soft egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a delectable sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and rich. The melty cheese on top adds that irresistible golden crust and extra layer of indulgence that makes casseroles so beloved. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, using readily available ingredients to bring a hearty, homemade dinner to your table with minimal fuss.

The secret to this exceptional egg noodle casserole lies in a generous application of Italian seasoning. This herbaceous blend elevates the rich, meaty tomato sauce with bright, aromatic notes of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Combined with fresh garlic and onions, these foundational flavors build a profound depth that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. This cozy and protein-packed dinner is a must-try recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you need a reliably delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole

There are countless reasons why this beefy and cheesy casserole dish is a staple in my kitchen. Here’s why I’m confident it will become a go-to favorite for you too:

• Effortlessly Easy to Make. This recipe is incredibly simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It utilizes common pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find, and the entire process, from start to oven-ready, takes just about 45 minutes. The steps are straightforward, perfect for novice cooks and experienced home chefs alike.
• The Ultimate Comfort Food. When cold weather calls for something warm and deeply satisfying, this casserole delivers. It’s packed with classic comfort ingredients like tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, a creamy, rich sauce, and an abundance of melted cheese. Every forkful feels like a warm hug, making it the perfect antidote to a chilly day or a stressful week.
• Remarkably Affordable. Feeding a family or a crowd doesn’t have to break the bank. This beef noodle casserole recipe is not only incredibly filling and loaded with protein but also very budget-friendly. It relies on economical household staples such as ground beef, egg noodles, canned tomatoes, and cheese, all of which are super affordable and provide excellent value for a hearty meal.
• Protein-Packed & Satisfying. With a pound of lean ground beef, this casserole is a fantastic source of protein, ensuring that everyone at the table feels full and energized. The combination of meat, noodles, and dairy creates a well-rounded meal that’s both nourishing and incredibly satisfying.
• Highly Customizable. While delicious as is, this casserole is also very forgiving and adaptable. You can easily tweak ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Add extra vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or even swap the meat – the possibilities are endless for making it your own.

Essential Ingredients for Beef Noodle Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious beef noodle casserole. Most of these are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. For precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the very end of this article.

• Egg Noodles: These are the backbone of our casserole, providing a tender and substantial base that readily absorbs the rich sauce. Wide egg noodles are typically preferred for their hearty texture.
• Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef (at least 85% lean) to prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy. However, if you enjoy a richer flavor, 80/20 ground beef works wonderfully. For a lighter alternative, ground turkey can be substituted without compromising much on flavor.
• Onion: A small yellow onion, finely chopped, adds a foundational savory sweetness to the dish as it caramelizes with the beef. White or red onions can also be used depending on your preference.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for aromatic depth and a pungent kick that complements the beef and tomato sauce. Don’t skimp on this!
• Italian Seasoning: This is the secret ingredient that truly elevates the casserole, infusing it with a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Its bright, herbaceous notes perfectly cut through the richness of the meat and cheese.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Adjust to your taste.
• Black Pepper: A dash of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick.
• Petit Diced Tomatoes: A can of petit diced tomatoes provides a pleasant textural element and a fresh, tangy tomato flavor to the sauce. Their small size integrates seamlessly into the casserole.
• Tomato Sauce: The base for our rich and savory sauce, a good quality canned tomato sauce will create a smooth and flavorful foundation.
• Sour Cream: This is key to achieving the casserole’s signature creamy texture and a slight tang that balances the richness. For an extra protein boost and similar creaminess, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly topping and a gooey, cheesy layer throughout the casserole. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend for variation.

How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this hearty beef noodle casserole is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a comforting meal that’s ready in no time:

• Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and efficiently once assembled.
• Step 2: Cook the Noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your egg noodles and cook them for approximately 3 minutes less than the package directions recommend. This crucial step ensures the noodles remain slightly al dente, preventing them from becoming mushy when they finish cooking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside.
• Step 3: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and finely chopped onions. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains, and the onions have softened and become translucent. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the casserole from being overly oily.
• Step 4: Add the Garlic. Once the beef and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
• Step 5: Build the Sauce. Pour in the petit diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
• Step 6: Combine Remaining Ingredients. Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the pre-cooked egg noodles, sour cream, and about 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything gently until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the noodles are evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
• Step 7: Bake the Casserole. Transfer the entire mixture from the skillet into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth out the top, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
• Step 8: Final Bake and Serve. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot to allow the flavors to settle and prevent it from falling apart when scooped.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for the Best Beef Noodle Casserole

Elevate your beef noodle casserole with these handy tips and creative variations:

• Craft Your Own Italian Seasoning. While store-bought Italian seasoning works fine, making your own spice blend will truly elevate this ground beef casserole. Homemade seasonings often boast fresher, more vibrant flavors, and they’re surprisingly easy and cost-effective to prepare. A simple mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram will make a noticeable difference. Find a great recipe for homemade Italian Seasoning to take this dish to the next level.
• Achieve Deep Flavor by Browning the Beef Thoroughly. One of the most critical steps for maximizing the savory, meaty flavors in your casserole is properly browning the ground beef. Don’t just cook it until the pink disappears; let it develop a nice, rich brown crust. Cook the meat at a medium-high temperature, and avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can steam the meat instead of browning it. This Maillard reaction adds incredible depth of flavor that a pale beef simply can’t provide.
• Infuse Some Heat. If you enjoy a bit of spice, it’s easy to add a kick to your beef noodle casserole. Incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes along with the other seasonings, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the tomato mixture. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.
• Pre-cook Noodles Al Dente. Remember to cook your egg noodles approximately 3 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Since the noodles will continue to cook in the oven while the casserole bakes, undercooking them slightly ensures they remain tender yet firm, preventing a mushy texture in the final dish.
• Opt for Ground Turkey. While ground beef lends a rich, hearty quality, you can easily lighten up this recipe by substituting lean ground turkey. The casserole will still be incredibly flavorful and satisfying, offering a slightly different, leaner profile.
• Add More Vegetables. Boost the nutritional content and add extra texture by incorporating more vegetables. Diced bell peppers (any color), sliced mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh spinach can be sautéed with the onions or stirred into the sauce. This is a great way to sneak in extra greens!
• Experiment with Cheese. While cheddar cheese is a classic, don’t be afraid to try other cheeses. A blend of mozzarella and provolone will give it a milder, stretchier melt, while a touch of Parmesan grated over the top before serving adds a salty, nutty finish.
• Creamier Sauce. For an even richer and creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk, half-and-half, or even a bit of cream cheese along with the sour cream. This will enhance the luxurious texture of the sauce.
• Make Ahead Option. This casserole is fantastic for meal prep! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of baking) and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be chilled.

What to Serve With Beef Noodle Casserole

This comforting beef noodle casserole is rich, hearty, and loaded with savory beef, tender noodles, and gooey cheese. To balance its satisfying richness, it pairs beautifully with fresh, bright, and lighter side dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, savory Brussels sprouts offer a delightful counterpoint with their slightly bitter notes and tender texture.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness, with its sharp dressing and crunchy croutons.
• Homemade Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw is a perfect palate cleanser after a bite of hearty casserole.
• Garlic Bread: What’s better to scoop up any extra sauce than warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s a classic pairing for a reason.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus offers a delicate flavor and a vibrant green color, providing a light, fresh vegetable accompaniment.
• Simple Green Salad: A basic mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice to add freshness and a bit of crunch.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets offer a healthy and mild green vegetable option that won’t overpower the main dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers of this hearty beef noodle casserole are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day! Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this comfort meal for days to come.

• Refrigeration: Any remaining casserole should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Reheating from the Fridge: To reheat, you have a couple of options. For best results and to maintain a crispy cheese topping, warm individual portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, for a quicker method, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until piping hot. If the casserole seems a bit dry, add a splash of beef broth or water before reheating to restore moisture.
• Freezing: This is an excellent recipe for freezing! Ensure the hamburger noodle casserole is completely cooled before preparing it for the freezer. You can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (if you baked it in a freezer-safe dish) in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Reheating from the Freezer: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and bubbling. For a whole casserole, it might take closer to 45-60 minutes. Covering it with foil for the first half of reheating can prevent the top from drying out.

More Delicious & Easy Casserole Recipes

Casseroles are a true lifesaver for busy weeknights and comforting family meals. They are easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and often feed a crowd with minimal effort. If you loved this beef noodle casserole, you’ll definitely want to try some of my other favorite casserole recipes:

• Beef Enchilada Casserole: Layers of savory beef, tortillas, and a zesty enchilada sauce make this a vibrant and flavorful dish.
• Taco Casserole: All your favorite taco flavors baked into one easy casserole, perfect for a fun and customizable dinner.
• Burrito Casserole: A hearty and satisfying casserole packed with all the delicious components of a classic burrito.
• Sausage Breakfast Casserole: Ideal for weekend brunches or meal prep, this egg bake is loaded with sausage and potatoes.
• Enchilada Pasta Casserole: A delightful fusion of zesty enchilada flavors with comforting pasta in a baked dish.
• Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Enjoy all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form.

4.84 from 30 votes

Beef Noodle Casserole

By Erin Sellin

This hearty and protein-packed beef noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The meat is juicy, the sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with spices, and the easy casserole is loaded with melted cheese.

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Cook: 40 minutes mins

Total: 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

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Ingredients

• ▢ 12 oz egg noodles
• ▢ 1 pound lean ground beef
• ▢ 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ▢ 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 15 oz can petit diced tomatoes
• ▢ 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• ▢ 3/4 cup sour cream
• ▢ 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350F.
• Bring a pot of water to a boil, and add the egg noodles. Cook the noodles for about 3 minutes shorter than the package says to, then drain.
  12 oz egg noodles
• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions until the meat is cooked throughout, and the onions are soft.
  1 pound lean ground beef, 1 small onion
• Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4 cloves garlic
• Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 15 oz can petit diced tomatoes, 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• Add the noodles, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese to the mixture, and stir to combine.
  3/4 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
• Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top.
• Bake until the casserole is hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
• Serve hot.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days, or in the freezer for 6 months.
• Reheat in a 350F oven for 15 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second increments.
• For best results, make your own Italian Seasoning.

Nutrition

Calories: 442kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 748mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Course: Ground Beef Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 442

Keyword: beef noodle casserole, easy casserole recipes, egg noodle casserole, ground beef casserole, hamburger noodle casserole

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