Easy Beef Noodle Casserole recipe

Looking for a simple and delicious dinner idea? Try our Easy Beef Noodle Casserole recipe! Made with lean ground beef, tender egg noodles, and gooey melted cheese, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters! Serve this comforting casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Beef Noodle Casserole

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 12 ounces cooked egg noodles
• 1 can (16 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (or any preferred cheese)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Noodles: Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse and drain them thoroughly.
2. Sauté the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
3. Season the Beef Mixture: Sprinkle the cooked beef mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine evenly.
4. Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine with Egg Noodles: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture, stirring thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish and transfer the noodle-beef mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
7. Top with Cheese: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
8. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Beef Noodle Casserole!

Creative Twists to Elevate Your Casserole Game

• Mexican-Inspired Twist: Substitute the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and the Cheddar cheese with Mexican blend cheese. Top with sliced jalapeños and serve with sour cream and salsa for a flavorful Tex-Mex twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a meatless version of this casserole. Add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Greek-inspired Variation: Use Greek seasoning instead of Italian seasoning, and swap the tomato sauce for a mixture of diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Garnish with fresh oregano and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Beef Noodle Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with different flavor profiles, this hearty casserole is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or potluck gathering.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled casserole.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   While egg noodles work wonderfully in this recipe, you can certainly use other types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
4. What can I serve with Beef Noodle Casserole?
   This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.