Description
A comforting Cheesy Beef and Noodle Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a creamy tomato cheese sauce baked to perfection. This hearty dish combines savory tomato flavors with rich cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, making it a perfect family-friendly meal for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 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
Pasta
- 12 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)
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
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth (or water), dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and beef mixture: In a large mixing bowl or the pot used for noodles, combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture. Pour in the cheese sauce and gently fold to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This rest time allows the casserole to set for easier portioning and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Sour cream is optional but adds creaminess.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
