Save
Beef Noodle Casserole

Beef Noodle Casserole

from delish.com
70 min
6 servings
752 per serving

This version of beef noodle casserole combines a shelf-stable favorite—cream of mushroom soup—along with tomato sauce, garlic, sweet onion, and sharp cheddar.

Ingredients

  • kosher salt
  • egg noodles
    12 oz.
  • unsalted butter
    2 tbsp.
  • extra-virgin olive oil
    2 tbsp.
  • ground beef
    1 lb.
  • yellow onion

    finely chopped

    1 large
  • garlic

    finely chopped

    3 cloves
  • can tomato sauce
    1
  • can cream of mushroom soup
    1
  • heavy cream
    ⅓ c.
  • sharp cheddar

    shredded, divided

    8 oz.
  • chopped fresh parsley
    1 tbsp.

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook noodles, stirring occasionally, until 1 minute less than al dente according to package directions. Drain; reserve 1 cup pasta water. Add butter to noodles and toss to combine.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in another large pot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cook beef, breaking up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 6 minutes; season with salt.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until onion is translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce, soup, cream, and one-third of cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook, adding 1/2 to 1 cup pasta water, until cheese is melted and desired consistency is reached, about 1 minute; season with salt, if needed. Add noodles to pot and mix with meat mixture. Pour into 13" x 9" baking pan and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

  4. 4

    Bake casserole until center and edges are bubbly, 30 minutes. Top with parsley.

About this Recipe

Craving a dish that delivers ultimate comfort and incredible flavor without the fuss? This Beef Noodle Casserole is your new go-to main dish! Perfect for weeknight meals, it brings together tender beef, savory noodles, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. What makes this specific beef noodle casserole truly stand out is its masterful blend of classic ingredients. We're talking about the creamy goodness of shelf-stable cream of mushroom soup, brightened by tangy tomato sauce, aromatic garlic, sweet onion, and generously layered with sharp cheddar cheese. This combination creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile that's both nostalgic and incredibly delicious. With just 10 minutes of prep and an hour in the oven, you'll have a hearty, home-cooked meal ready for the family. It's the ultimate easy casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!

Making Your Beef Noodle Casserole Shine

To truly elevate this dish, here are a few simple tips and variations:

  • Flavor Foundation: Don't rush sautéing the onion and garlic. Allowing them to soften and become fragrant builds a robust base for your beef and sauce.
  • Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • Veggie Boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of baking for added color and nutrition.
  • Cheese Swap: While sharp cheddar offers a fantastic bite, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Colby Jack or even a mix of Gruyère for a gourmet twist.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty beef noodle casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions