There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven-a dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite. Enter the Hearty Ground Beef adn Noodle Casserole: a timeless comfort classic that has graced family dinner tables for generations. Combining tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that satisfies both hunger and heart. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, essential ingredients, and simple steps to create your own appetizing version of this beloved dish, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort and convenience in one hearty plate.
Hearty Ground Beef and Noodle Casserole: A comfort classic
When it comes to home-cooked meals that blend nostalgia, warmth, and layers of irresistible flavor, few dishes rival the hearty ground beef and noodle casserole. This beloved classic combines tender ground beef, silky noodles, and a rich, savory sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection under a blanket of golden cheese. The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its comforting taste but also in its versatility-perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeks when you crave something truly satisfying.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium - ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks aiming for a comforting weeknight favorite with impressive results.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal fat content and flavor)
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 ½ cups beef broth, low sodium
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 minutes. Transfer beef to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Build the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the beef broth to prevent lumps. Add tomato paste,smoked paprika,oregano,and diced tomatoes. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Combine beef and sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring well to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and fold in sour cream, creating a creamy, savory mixture.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and beef sauce mixture until fully incorporated. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the casserole’s surface,ensuring each bite will have melty,golden goodness.
- Bake to perfection: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown with a slightly crisp crust forming along the edges.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Ground Beef: Select an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the ideal balance of richness and moisture. To lean can leave the casserole dry, while too fatty can become greasy.
- Savory Sauce Insight: building your sauce with a roux helps create a velvety texture that clings beautifully to noodles and beef alike. Incorporate sour cream off heat to prevent curdling and maintain creaminess.
- picking the Noodles: Wide egg noodles offer a tender bite and absorb the sauce perfectly without falling apart-avoid thinner varieties that may become mushy.
- Baking the Crust: Bake with the cheese exposed to the oven’s heat to develop a golden, slightly crisp crust that contrasts the creamy interior. For extra touch, broil briefly at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking, then add 10 extra baking minutes for even heating.
Serving Suggestions
enjoy this creamy casserole straight from the oven paired with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of roasted seasonal vegetables or a light cucumber dill salad also complements the dish beautifully. For an inviting presentation, garnish with fresh parsley and a pinch of cracked black pepper atop each serving. Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of savory sauce.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 24g |
Explore another comforting beef dish here or visit Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner for more inspiration and tips on choosing quality ground beef.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Ground beef and Noodle Casserole – A Comfort classic
Q1: What makes the Ground Beef and Noodle Casserole a “comfort classic”?
A1: This casserole embodies comfort through its warm, familiar flavors and satisfying textures. Tender noodles bathed in a rich, savory beef sauce create a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or when you crave that nostalgic home-cooked meal.
Q2: What kind of noodles work best in this casserole?
A2: Wide egg noodles are the customary choice, offering a hearty bite and a slightly chewy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully. However, other pasta types like rotini or penne can work well, adding a fun twist while still providing that comforting base.
Q3: How do I ensure the casserole stays moist and doesn’t dry out during baking?
A3: The key is a well-balanced sauce that’s neither too thick nor too thin. Incorporating ingredients like beef broth, a touch of tomato sauce or cream, and shredded cheese helps retain moisture.Covering the casserole with foil for most of the baking time also locks in steam, keeping every bite tender and juicy.
Q4: Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! In fact, preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully.Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it a bit longer to ensure it’s heated through evenly.
Q5: What are some creative ways to boost the nutrition in this classic dish?
A5: adding finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or carrots can elevate both flavor and nutrition without overpowering the dish. For an extra protein punch, consider mixing in beans or lentils alongside the ground beef.
Q6: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A6: Yes! It freezes very well. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until bubbly and golden. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Q7: How can I customize the seasoning to suit different tastes?
A7: Ground beef is a fantastic blank canvas.For a classic flavor, stick with garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. To add a Mediterranean twist, incorporate oregano, thyme, and a sprinkle of feta on top. For a bolder kick, try cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
Q8: What cheese types complement this casserole best?
A8: Mild cheeses that melt well are ideal. Cheddar is the classic topping, providing a rich, creamy layer. Mozzarella adds gooey stretchiness, while a bit of Parmesan lends a sharp, nutty finish. Combining cheeses can create a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
Q9: can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
A9: Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean alternatives that maintain the hearty nature of the casserole. For a vegetarian version, hearty plant-based crumbles or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms create a satisfying texture that harmonizes beautifully with the noodles.
Q10: What side dishes pair well with a Ground beef and Noodle Casserole?
A10: Sence the casserole is rich and filling, lighter sides work best.A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed seasonal vegetables, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad provide refreshing balance. Warm, crusty bread also pairs nicely to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
This Q&A shines a spotlight on the beloved Ground Beef and Noodle Casserole, illustrating why it remains a timeless staple in comfort food cuisine. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative twists, it’s a dish that invites warmth, flavor, and family around the table.
Insights and Conclusions
Whether you’re seeking a soul-warming meal after a bustling day or a nostalgic dish that brings loved ones together, this Hearty Ground beef and Noodle Casserole stands as a timeless comfort classic. With its rich layers of savory beef, tender noodles, and creamy goodness baked to golden perfection, it’s more than just dinner-it’s a festivity of homey flavors and simple pleasures. So next time you crave a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, remember this casserole is just a bake away, ready to nourish both body and spirit.
