Name: Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

If you’re craving comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying, this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a cozy dinner that fills the whole kitchen with warm, inviting aromas, this casserole brings together tender beef and tender noodles in a rich, flavorful sauce. I love how it’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special homemade meal you can enjoy all week long.

The image shows a rich tomato soup served in a round brown bowl sitting on a wooden board. The soup has a deep red base filled with small pieces of cooked ground meat and chopped tomatoes. On top, there is a layer of bright green chopped herbs scattered around with a small bunch of fresh basil leaves placed in the center, adding a pop of color. Next to the bowl, a slice of white bread with a soft texture is leaning against it, and a silver spoon is partially visible on the white marbled surface. The background is softly blurred, focusing attention on the bowl of soup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 1:1 --v 7 — Beef and Noodle Casserole, hearty beef casserole, comfort food recipes, easy beef noodle bake, family dinner casseroles

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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

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In the Kitchen

This Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those gems that brings together simple ingredients for maximum comfort. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll have a go-to dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Juicy and Tender Every Time: I use ground beef browned just right, draining any excess fat to keep the casserole rich but not greasy.
Golden, Satisfying Finish: A light topping of cheese or breadcrumbs browns beautifully in the oven, adding that irresistible crisp touch.
Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: Pantry staples like noodles, canned tomatoes, and beef broth come together with just a few seasonings for a flavor-packed dish.
Weeknight to Weekend Ready: Easy enough for dinner after work, but impressive enough to serve to company without stress.

Ingredients at a Glance

Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image — Beef and Noodle Casserole, hearty beef casserole, comfort food recipes, easy beef noodle bake, family dinner casseroles

Choosing quality ingredients builds the backbone of your Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe. Fresh beef, flavorful broth, and the right pasta all make a difference you’ll notice in every bite.

Ground beef: Look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy flavor without too much grease.
Egg noodles: Wide noodles hold the sauce better—fresh if possible, but dried works fine too.
Crushed tomatoes: Use good quality canned tomatoes for a naturally rich tomato flavor.
Beef broth: Adds depth—homemade or low-sodium store-bought both work well.
Onion and garlic: Fresh and finely chopped to build that savory base.
Worcestershire sauce & Italian seasoning: Small additions that amplify the savory and herbal notes.
Cheese (optional): Sharp cheddar or mozzarella for that golden finish.

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

How to Make Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1 — Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. As it starts to brown, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, breaking the beef apart with your spoon, until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent—this takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain the excess fat carefully to keep the casserole from becoming greasy but still moist. You’ll notice the kitchen fills with a rich, mouthwatering aroma right at this stage.

Step 2 — Combine Sauce Ingredients and Simmer

To the beef mixture, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld into a silky, savory sauce that will soak into the noodles beautifully. Stir occasionally to keep things evenly mixed and prevent sticking.

Step 3 — Cook the Noodles Just Right

While your sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles just shy of al dente, usually about 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions. You want them slightly firm since they’ll finish cooking in the casserole. Drain the noodles well and set them aside. This step is key to preventing a mushy, soggy finish—trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!

Step 4 — Assemble and Bake Your Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine your simmered beef sauce and the cooked noodles, folding gently until all the noodles are coated. Transfer everything to a greased casserole dish. If you're using cheese, sprinkle it on top for a lovely golden crust later. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and the top turns a toasty golden brown. This is when your kitchen will smell like the ultimate comfort meal is ready.

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Things to Remember

Some tips I’ve picked up helping you nail this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe every time, no matter your level in the kitchen.

Doneness Cue: Look for bubbling sauce edges and a golden browned top as a sure sign it’s ready.
Temperature Trick: Using a mid-oven rack helps the casserole cook evenly without burning the top or undercooking the middle.
Make-Ahead Move: You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead; just keep it covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready.
Common Pitfall: Avoid overcooking noodles before baking to prevent a mushy texture—still a bit firm is perfect.

Ways to Serve It

Finishing Touches

Just before serving, I like to sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil. It adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that balances the rich beef and tomato flavors beautifully. A grating of extra cheese on top also elevates the experience if you’re feeling indulgent. These simple touches make your Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe look as good as it tastes.

Plays Well With

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli add color and texture, making your plate feel balanced and wholesome. Trust me, these side combos turn the casserole into a full meal that everyone will enjoy.

Simple Plating Upgrades

For casual dinners, scoop the casserole into warm bowls with a forkful of fresh herbs on top. For special occasions, serve it on ceramic plates garnished with a small sprig of thyme or basil, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. These little styling tricks make your meal feel thoughtfully plated without extra fuss.

Make-Ahead & Keeping Fresh

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe in an airtight container to keep it tasting fresh. It’ll last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. You might notice the noodles absorb a bit more sauce overnight, making the texture even more comforting—but if it seems dry, a splash of broth when reheating works wonders.

Freezing Tips

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. The texture stays great, especially if you add a touch of broth while reheating to regain creaminess.

Reheating Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe Without Drying Out

Whether you use the microwave, oven, or air fryer, gently reheating with a bit of extra moisture helps keep the noodles tender and sauce luscious. In the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between. For oven reheating, wrap the casserole with foil and warm at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. A splash of broth or water before heating helps prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well with the seasoning and sauce. Just be sure to watch cooking times so it doesn't dry out.

What type of noodles work best for Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe?

Wide egg noodles are my favorite because they hold the sauce nicely and have a great texture. You can also use pappardelle or even penne in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and make sure your beef broth and seasonings are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from gluten.

How long does the Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe take to prepare?

From start to finish, including prep and baking, plan for about 1 hour. Most of that is wait time while it bakes and simmers.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a family favorite. It’s forgiving, flavorful, and easy to customize. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a cozy solo dinner, you’ll enjoy the warm, savory flavors and the satisfying texture the noodles add. Next time you want a hearty dish that’s straightforward but delicious, give this casserole a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Full Printable Recipe