Description
This Cheesy Beef and Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s packed with savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy cheese sauce that’s baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)
- 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
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 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 Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Beef:
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 more minutes until softened. - Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. - Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sour cream (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside. - Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until well mixed. - Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the noodle and beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top. - Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. - Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 65mg