Name: Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups cooked egg noodles; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and effortlessly feeds a crowd. Whether you're cooking on a chilly evening or want an easy casserole to bring to a potluck, this recipe never disappoints with its rich flavors and simple ingredients.

Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image — Beef and Noodle Casserole, comforting beef pasta bake, easy casserole dinner, hearty ground beef recipes, cheesy beef pasta dish

Jump to:

In the Kitchen
Ingredients at a Glance
How to Make Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe
Things to Remember
Ways to Serve It
Make-Ahead & Keeping Fresh
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Full Printable Recipe

🥄

In the Kitchen

This Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes I turn to when I want something hearty and straightforward. It’s full of familiar flavors that come together beautifully without fancy techniques or ingredients. You’ll notice it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles—a combination that never fails to impress.

Juicy and Tender Every Time: Browning the ground beef with onions locks in flavor and keeps the meat tender.
Golden, Satisfying Finish: Topping with breadcrumbs and cheese gives a toasty, crunchy crust perfect for contrast.
Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: Everyday pantry staples come alive in this cozy casserole you can whip up any day.
Weeknight to Weekend Ready: Whether it’s last-minute dinner or casual entertaining, this casserole fits right in.

Ingredients at a Glance

Choosing quality components helps this beef and noodle casserole shine. Fresh onions and good ground beef make a difference, and using cooked egg noodles that’re just tender prevents mushiness. Here’s a quick look at the essentials.

Ground Beef: Aim for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for flavor without too much grease.
Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Egg Noodles: Cook al dente to avoid soggy noodles after baking.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: The classic base for that creamy, savory finish.
Sour Cream: Adds tang and richness—don’t skip it!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor and melty texture.
Garlic Powder: A subtle spice boost without overpowering.
Breadcrumbs (Optional): For a crunchy, golden top layer.

Heads-Up: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.

How to Make Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1 — Sauté the Beef and Onions

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook everything until the beef is browned and the onions have softened and turned translucent—usually about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. This step builds a savory flavor base that makes the whole dish sing.

Step 2 — Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked beef mixture along with the hot, cooked egg noodles. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to coat each noodle and piece of beef in that luscious sauce.

Step 3 — Assemble and Bake

Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour in the beef and noodle mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. If you like a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs on top of the cheese. Pop the dish into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the cheese has melted into a golden, inviting crust.

📋

Things to Remember

To nail this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe every time, keep these handy tips in mind. They’ll help you get the perfect balance of flavors and textures, whether it’s your first time or your tenth.

Doneness Cue: Look for bubbling edges and a golden cheese crust to know it’s ready.
Temperature Trick: Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking—this sets the sauce and makes it easier to serve.
Make-Ahead Move: Prepare the mixture ahead, store covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.
Common Pitfall: Don’t overcook the noodles before mixing to avoid a mushy casserole.

Ways to Serve It

Finishing Touches

I love adding a handful of fresh chopped parsley or green onions just before serving to brighten the rich flavors and add a fresh, vibrant pop. A dollop of sour cream on the side also works wonders if you like a little tang with each bite. These finishing touches take the casserole from hearty to homey in seconds.

Plays Well With

This casserole is a meal all on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted veggies, or steamed broccoli to cut through the richness. A light vinaigrette and some crusty bread make a lovely balance and a full, satisfying dinner.

Simple Plating Upgrades

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese or even a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle warmth. For a potluck, letting it bubble in a pretty dish with a colorful serving spoon invites compliments before folks even taste it.

Make-Ahead & Keeping Fresh

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You’ll want to know the noodles soak up some of the sauce overnight, so it might be a little thicker the next day—but just as tasty.

Freezing Tips

This beef and noodle casserole freezes well if you want to save portions for later. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep that creamy texture intact.

Reheating Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe Without Drying Out

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C), covered with foil to lock in moisture and prevent drying. The microwave works too—heat in short intervals, stirring if possible, and adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce. Avoid high heat or long reheats, which can make the noodles tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor will be a little milder. You might want to boost the seasoning if you switch it up.

Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?

While cream of mushroom adds classic creaminess, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce for different flavors—just keep a similar creamy consistency.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Adjust seasonings and make sure your soup and cheese are vegetarian-friendly.

How can I keep the noodles from getting mushy?

Try cooking the noodles just until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking sooner. Mixing with the sauce and baking briefly preserves their texture nicely.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen like it is in mine. It’s one of those go-to dishes that feels casual but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The layers of beef, creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and tender noodles come together to create real comfort—and really, isn’t that what good food is all about? Once you try it, I think you’ll find yourself making it again and again, whether for simple dinners or crowd-pleasing gatherings.

Full Printable Recipe