Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole

by

Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to bubbly perfection. Layers of rich flavors from tomato sauce, garlic, and onions meld together, while a generous topping of melted cheese adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s hearty, satisfying, and the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.

I first tried Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet filling. It became an instant favorite—simple ingredients, minimal prep, and it delivered big on flavor. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, switch up the cheeses, or even use different pasta shapes for variety. It’s a go-to family dinner, great for leftovers, and perfect for potlucks. Total crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Potlucks and gatherings
  • Family-friendly meals
  • Make-ahead meal prep

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole will become a staple in your meal rotation:

  • Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup with fewer dishes to wash.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising flavor.
  • Kid-Approved: A family favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy.
  • Comfort Food Classic: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying for cozy dinners.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for a no-stress meal later.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: Savory, tangy, and cheesy in every bite.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for feeding a group or bringing to potlucks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Egg Noodles: Soft and tender, they soak up the flavors of the sauce.
  • Ground Beef: Provides a savory and hearty base for the dish.
  • Cheddar and Mozzarella: A melty, cheesy topping that adds richness.
  • Tomato Sauce and Paste: Create a flavorful and thick sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Egg Noodles:

  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Sauce:

  1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened.
  3. Cook Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
  5. Season: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Combine Noodles and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked egg noodles with the beef sauce until well coated.
  2. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake and Serve:

  1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole:

  • With Garlic Bread: A classic side to soak up the sauce.
  • Paired with a Green Salad: Adds freshness and balance to the meal.
  • Topped with Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat.
  • Served with Steamed Vegetables: A healthy and colorful addition.
  • With a Dollop of Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang.
  • As a Leftover Lunch: Reheats beautifully for the next day.
  • Accompanied by Pickles: For a tangy contrast.
  • With a Side of Mashed Potatoes: Extra comfort food vibes.
  • Topped with Fresh Herbs: Basil, parsley, or chives for added flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in your casserole without sacrificing flavor.
  • Add vegetables: Enhance your casserole by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Cook noodles al dente: Be sure to cook the noodles just until they’re al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the casserole.
  • Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a mix of both to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder to give the dish an extra kick.
  • Make it creamy: Stir in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to make the casserole extra creamy and rich.
  • Top with breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the casserole before baking.
  • Add a layer of spinach: For a nutritious boost, mix in some cooked spinach or kale to the beef mixture.
  • Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well, so consider making a double batch and storing one for a quick meal later on.
  • Serve with a side salad: Balance out the richness of the casserole by serving it with a light, refreshing side salad.

Recipe Variations

  • Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or extra veggies like zucchini and mushrooms.
  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Cheesy Overload: Mix extra cheese into the noodle and sauce mixture before baking.
  • Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning and top with salsa and sour cream.
  • Creamy Casserole: Stir in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese for added richness.
  • Whole Wheat Noodles: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat egg noodles.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap out noodles for gluten-free pasta.
  • Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for more nutrients.
  • Pesto Flavor: Mix a spoonful of pesto into the sauce for an herby kick.

Special Equipment

  • Large Skillet: For cooking the beef sauce.
  • Mixing Bowl: To combine noodles and sauce.
  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for even baking.
  • Cheese Grater: For freshly grated cheese.
  • Colander: To drain the noodles.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowtie works well.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  4. Can I freeze this casserole?
    Yes, freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
  6. Can I add more vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
  7. Can I use canned soup in the recipe?
    Yes, a can of cream of mushroom or cream of tomato soup can enhance the flavor and texture.
  8. How do I make it less salty?
    Use low-sodium tomato products and season to taste.
  9. What other cheeses work well?
    Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or provolone for a different flavor.
  10. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
    Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and has a fresher taste.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting casserole combines tender egg noodles with seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese layer that melts to perfection in the oven. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

The base of this casserole is made by browning ground beef with onions and garlic, then mixing it with a flavorful tomato or marinara sauce. Cooked egg noodles are layered with the meat sauce, and a creamy mixture of sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese adds richness to every bite. Topped with more cheese, the casserole is baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is incredibly versatile—you can sneak in vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

I can’t wait to see how your Easy Ground Beef Noodle Casserole turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!