This hearty Beef and Noodle Casserole is a comforting, old-fashioned dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a creamy tomato-mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

12 ounces wide egg noodles
1 pound lean ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
15-ounce can tomato sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until the beef is cooked through and the onion is tender.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and tomato sauce until well combined.
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and gently mix until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 479 kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 972mg
Potassium: 560mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 702 IU
Vitamin C: 7mg
Calcium: 310mg
Iron: 3mg

A History of Casseroles in American Cuisine

Casseroles have long been a staple in American kitchens, particularly during the 20th century when convenience became a driving factor in meal planning. The casserole was born out of necessity, providing families with a way to stretch meals further using leftover ingredients or budget-friendly pantry staples. Over time, casseroles evolved into a beloved genre of comfort food.

Beef and Noodle Casserole, like many classic casseroles, likely has roots in the mid-1900s when hearty, easy-to-prepare meals became especially popular. Ground beef was a key ingredient, offering a versatile and economical protein option that could be paired with a variety of vegetables, noodles, and sauces. This dish, in particular, blends the savory flavors of beef with the soft, chewy texture of egg noodles, creating a dish that is both satisfying and easy to make.

Why Beef and Noodle Casserole Works

One of the key reasons Beef and Noodle Casserole is so appealing is its simplicity. Ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce—whether it’s made with cream of mushroom soup, tomato sauce, or a blend of both—form the perfect base for a meal. The rich, meaty flavor of the beef pairs beautifully with the softness of the noodles, while the sauce adds a creamy texture that makes the casserole feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

The dish’s versatility is another reason for its popularity. While the classic version includes ingredients like ground beef, onion, garlic, and cheddar cheese, variations abound. For example, some recipes may add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to the mix. Others might swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The casserole can also be made spicier by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce, or it can be customized to suit dietary preferences with alternatives like gluten-free noodles or dairy-free cheese.

The Importance of Layering in Casseroles

What makes casseroles so unique is their layering technique. For Beef and Noodle Casserole, the noodles and beef are combined with a creamy sauce and then topped with a generous layer of shredded cheese before being baked to perfection. The cheese forms a golden, bubbly crust that adds an irresistible texture and flavor to the dish. This layering not only enhances the taste but also ensures that each bite is a perfect balance of flavors.

The layering technique also helps to distribute heat evenly throughout the casserole, ensuring that the noodles and beef are thoroughly cooked without drying out. The final bake helps to meld the flavors together, allowing the richness of the beef and sauce to permeate the noodles, creating a harmonious and comforting dish.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the great advantages of Beef and Noodle Casserole is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in large batches, stored in the fridge, and enjoyed over several days. In fact, like many casseroles, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld and deepen. Simply reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

Moreover, the casserole freezes well, making it an excellent option for busy households or anyone looking to prepare meals ahead of time. You can freeze the casserole before baking, then simply thaw and bake when needed. This makes it an excellent dish to prepare in advance for busy nights, holidays, or special occasions.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef and Noodle Casserole

While Beef and Noodle Casserole is undeniably a comfort food, it also provides several nutritional benefits. The ground beef in the casserole is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth. Additionally, beef is an excellent source of iron, which is necessary for healthy red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body. For those who are more active or need a higher protein intake, this casserole can serve as a substantial source of nourishment.

Egg noodles, while carb-heavy, provide energy and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods. Depending on the specific ingredients used, Beef and Noodle Casserole can also offer beneficial vitamins and minerals. For example, adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms can increase the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish.

For those concerned with calorie intake, it’s easy to adjust the recipe to make it lighter by using lean ground beef or substituting the cheese with a lower-fat version. You can also swap in whole wheat noodles or other alternatives to increase the fiber content of the dish.

How to Make Beef and Noodle Casserole Even More Delicious

Though the classic Beef and Noodle Casserole is a meal in itself, there are plenty of ways to enhance and personalize the dish. Here are a few suggestions to take your casserole to the next level:

Add fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil can add a burst of flavor and brightness to the casserole. Sprinkle them on top before baking or mix them into the beef and sauce for a more aromatic dish.
Use different cheeses: While cheddar is the go-to cheese for Beef and Noodle Casserole, you can experiment with other varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Incorporate vegetables: To make the dish even more nutritious, add in vegetables such as carrots, peas, bell peppers, or spinach. These add texture, color, and extra vitamins to the casserole, making it even more satisfying.
Top with breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, top the casserole with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs before baking. This adds a delightful contrast to the creamy interior and can take the texture to the next level.

Perfect Pairings for Beef and Noodle Casserole

Beef and Noodle Casserole is filling on its own, but pairing it with a few side dishes can turn it into a more rounded meal. A light, refreshing salad is a great complement to the richness of the casserole. Try a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a classic pairing.

For an added vegetable boost, consider serving the casserole with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach. These side dishes help balance out the heaviness of the casserole and add freshness to the meal. A slice of crusty bread or a warm roll can also be a welcome addition to the table, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. And for dessert, something light like a fruit salad or sorbet can provide a refreshing end to the meal.

Conclusion: A Timeless Comfort Food

Beef and Noodle Casserole is a perfect example of a timeless comfort food that satisfies both the palate and the soul. It combines simple ingredients into a dish that is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or making a dish to share with friends, Beef and Noodle Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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