Beef Noodle Casserole: A Comforting Classic to Satisfy Every Craving
Imagine coming home after a long day, and the first thing that hits you is the mouthwatering aroma of a hot, bubbling casserole baking in the oven. This Beef Noodle Casserole is that dish. It's the ultimate comfort food — a delicious combination of tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings all the goodness together. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser, this is one of those meals that makes everyone around the table smile.
Ingredients
- 12 oz uncooked egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz sour cream
- 8 oz small curd cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are just al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and set them aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbled, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant. This step adds a wonderful base flavor to your casserole.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked egg noodles and stir until everything is evenly coated. This creamy mixture is the secret to a rich and luscious casserole.
- Spread half of the creamy noodle mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcal