There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings the whole family to the table with smiles and full hearts. This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe merges rich, savory flavors with creamy textures and tender noodles to create a dish that feels like a big, delicious hug. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, a blend of cottage cheese and sour cream, and topped with gooey cheddar, it’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try this, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a key role in making this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe flavorful and hearty. From the savory beef to the creamy cheese combo, every element combines to create the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein, providing rich, meaty flavor and satisfying substance.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and softness when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a hint of pungency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop just right.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that brings warmth and a touch of earthiness.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Provides moisture, tang, and that classic casserole tomato flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Contributes creamy richness and slight tang that balances the savory beef.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Adds a mild creaminess with a subtle texture contrast.
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained: Tender pasta that holds the casserole and soaks up all the delicious sauces.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to a golden, bubbly topping bringing cheesy goodness to every bite.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch that brightens each serving.
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef along with chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds the foundational flavor, and cooking out the rawness of the beef is key for a satisfying casserole. Make sure to break the meat into small pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Once the beef mixture is browned, drain excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and the can of tomato sauce. Let this simmer gently for about five minutes so the spices meld together and the sauce thickens up just a bit. This intensifies those cozy, savory notes that make the casserole so comforting.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
While the beef simmers, mix the sour cream and cottage cheese in a bowl until smooth and well combined. This mixture not only adds creamy richness, but it also helps bind the casserole components together, ensuring every forkful has that luscious, velvety texture.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start with half of the cooked egg noodles to create a substantial base layer. Next, spread half of the sour cream and cottage cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Repeat the layering with the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, and beef.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt to a bubbly, irresistible golden crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly all over. Let it cool slightly before digging in—this short rest helps the casserole set for easier serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a hint of freshness to contrast the rich flavors. You can also add a light dusting of paprika or a few cherry tomato halves for color and brightness, making every serving look as fantastic as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette all work well to round out the meal with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins to make it feel extra special. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of your favorite salsa to add layers of flavor. These little presentation tricks can turn a simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe into an impressive dish for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake according to the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes or place the whole casserole in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to refresh the cheese topping’s melt and slight crispness. This method keeps the dish moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and season it well, as turkey tends to have a milder flavor than beef.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese if I don’t have any?
You can swap in ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture, or even creamy Greek yogurt for a tangier twist. Each brings a unique flair while keeping the casserole moist and rich.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some spinach folded into the beef mixture add nutrition and extra flavor. Just cook them beforehand to avoid extra moisture.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Be sure to drain the cooked noodles well and cook the beef mixture until some of the moisture cooks off. Using thicker tomato sauce instead of watery canned tomatoes also helps keep the casserole from being soggy.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure any seasoning blends or canned goods used are gluten-free certified.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a comforting Ground Beef Casserole Recipe to bring warmth and happiness to your dinner table. Its simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and full of homey goodness. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just want an easy, delicious meal, give this recipe a try—you might find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting American classic featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sour cream and cottage cheese mixture, tender egg noodles, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection, it makes an easy, family-friendly main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
Dairy Mixture
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Other Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease to avoid sogginess.
- Season Beef Mixture: Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend flavors, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Dairy Mixture: In a bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese until evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked egg noodles evenly on the bottom, then spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles. Next, add half of the beef mixture on top. Repeat the layering with remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef mixture. Finish by sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slightly golden top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist or ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- For extra vegetables, add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture during cooking.
