Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Are you ready to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends? This Beef Noodle Casserole recipe is a surefire way to impress your loved ones. Packed with flavors, it combines tender ground beef, rich cheeses, and perfectly cooked noodles into a delicious, warm dish. Read on to discover how you can make this mouthwatering casserole from scratch and make it your go-to comfort food!

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What is Beef Noodle Casserole?

Beef Noodle Casserole is a baked dish that features a savory mix of ground beef, noodles, and cheese, all bound together by a creamy sauce. It’s a classic comfort food that offers warmth and richness in every bite. Casseroles are loved for their ease of preparation, versatility, and the fact that they can serve large groups. This version of Beef Noodle Casserole is loaded with flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients List for Beef Noodle Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Beef Noodle Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef – Provides the hearty protein base for the casserole.
• 1 large onion (chopped) – Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic richness.
• 1 medium red bell pepper (diced) – Gives a slight sweetness and pop of color.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a herby, earthy flavor that pairs well with the beef.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium) – Helps create the sauce, providing depth and a meaty undertone.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds a rich, velvety texture to the casserole.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, umami depth to the dish.
• 10 ounces noodles (such as egg noodles) – The foundation of the casserole, giving it body and substance.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded) – For that melty, cheesy topping that makes casseroles irresistible.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and ground beef.
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – A fresh, bright touch to finish the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Noodle Casserole recipe is very versatile, and you can easily substitute or add ingredients to suit your taste:

• Ground Beef Substitutes: If you don’t eat beef, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative can be used.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses, like mozzarella or Gouda, for a twist in flavor.
• Vegetables: You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Noodles: If egg noodles aren’t your thing, try rotini, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.
• Dairy-Free Options: Substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make this irresistible Beef Noodle Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your egg noodles (or preferred pasta) and cook according to the package directions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add vegetables and seasoning: Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced red bell pepper, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture cook for another 3 minutes until the bell pepper starts to soften.
5. Prepare the sauce: Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Combine everything: In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the beef mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the noodle and beef mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. Add the cheesy topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown finish.
10. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

1. Cook Noodles: Boil and drain the noodles first, setting them aside.
2. Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Beef: Brown the beef with onions and garlic in a skillet.
3. Mix the Ingredients: Combine beef, cooked noodles, sour cream, cheese, and vegetables.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spread out evenly in a greased dish.
5. Top with Cheese: Cover the mixture with shredded cheddar and Parmesan.
6. Bake and Serve: Bake until golden brown, then garnish with parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Noodles: Ensure you cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Not Draining Excess Fat: Be sure to drain the fat from the cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Undercooking the Vegetables: Sauté vegetables until they’re tender, so they don’t remain crunchy in the casserole.
4. Skipping the Sauce Step: Take time to simmer the broth and cream together to thicken the sauce; this keeps the casserole from being dry.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate your Beef Noodle Casserole, consider these serving and presentation tips:

• Serve in portions: Use a large serving spoon to scoop out generous portions, ensuring each serving gets a mix of noodles, beef, and cheese.
• Add fresh herbs: Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even chopped chives for a pop of color.
• Pair with sides: Serve alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Noodle Casserole

• Rustic Feel: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a family-style, homey presentation.
• Individual Portions: For a more refined look, divide the casserole into ramekins or small oven-safe dishes.

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well; just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Cheesy Goodness: For extra cheesiness, stir in additional cheese into the beef mixture before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli will work well in this casserole.

Q: How long will leftovers last? A: Leftover Beef Noodle Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Yes, just substitute the noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure the Worcestershire sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers? A: You can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Conclusion

This Beef Noodle Casserole is a delicious, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes every bite a comforting delight. Whether you’re looking for a meal to feed a crowd or something you can prep ahead for busy weeknights, this casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Try this recipe today, and you’ll have a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

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