Why Make This Recipe
Beef Noodle Casserole is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors and comforting textures. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. This dish is not only filling but also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, both beginner and experienced cooks can enjoy making this delicious casserole.
How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion has softened and the beef is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the pan with the beef; toss to combine.
- Pour the beef and noodle mixture into a 9"x13" baking pan that has been coated in cooking spray. Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole
Beef Noodle Casserole is best served hot. You can dish it out onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This meal pairs nicely with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance flavors and add nutrition.
How to Store Beef Noodle Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole back in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Beef Noodle Casserole
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, into the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, allowing for a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze Beef Noodle Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
How long should I bake it if it’s frozen?
If you’re baking a frozen casserole, you may need to bake it for 45-60 minutes at 375 degrees F. Cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent the cheese from burning.
Beef Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1.25 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Sauce and Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley For garnish
- Cooking spray For coating the baking pan
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil; add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onion has softened and the beef is cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the pan with the beef; toss to combine.
Baking
- Pour the beef and noodle mixture into a 9"x13" baking pan that has been coated in cooking spray.
- Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.