Old-Fashioned Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe
This Old-Fashioned Beef and Noodle Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, reminiscent of cozy family dinners from years gone by. The hearty blend of ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, tender egg noodles, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a satisfying dish for a gathering, this casserole fits the bill.
Ingredients Overview
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory base to the dish. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a slight sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow onions work well, but any type can be used.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a hint of aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic works best, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: The creamy element that ties the casserole together, adding richness and flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Lends a tangy creaminess to the casserole, complementing the richness of the beef and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a melty, cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar gives a more intense flavor, but mild cheddar works well, too.
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained: The noodles soak up the flavors beautifully while maintaining a slightly chewy texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key for bringing out the flavors of the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Beef, Onion, and Garlic
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Stir in the Cream of Mushroom Soup, Sour Cream, and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the ingredients are well combined. This creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the beef.
Step 4: Combine with the Cooked Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the beef mixture and gently stir to combine, making sure the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Transfer to a Casserole Dish and Add the Cheese
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Helpful Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience
- Use a Blend of Cheeses: For more depth of flavor, try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Cook Noodles to Al Dente: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Season the Beef Well: Don’t forget to season the ground beef with salt and pepper while cooking. It makes a big difference in flavor.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For some extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or fried onions on top before baking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
- Try a Different Soup Base: You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating in the microwave, cover the casserole with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, rotini, penne, or macaroni work well.
2. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas would complement the dish.
3. Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. What type of beef is best?
Use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture.
6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, use a meat substitute and vegetarian cream of mushroom soup.
7. Can I add bacon to the casserole?
Absolutely! Cooked, crumbled bacon adds extra flavor.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda can be used.
9. How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted.
10. Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are good substitutes.
11. Should I cover the casserole while baking?
No need to cover it; bake uncovered for a crispy top.
12. Can I add hot sauce?
Yes, add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
13. Can I use canned fried onions on top?
Yes, fried onions add a crunchy texture.
14. What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
15. Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, parsley, thyme, or basil would add freshness.
16. Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, opt for low-fat sour cream and cheese if desired.
17. Can I skip the cheese?
The cheese adds richness, but you can reduce the amount if needed.
18. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and cream of mushroom soup.
19. How can I thicken the sauce?
Add a bit of flour or cornstarch if you prefer a thicker consistency.
20. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and soup.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Brown the beef well for deeper flavor.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
- Add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra depth.
- Mix in some caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste.
- Season in layers for more complex flavors.
- Stir in some cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Top with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
- Add a splash of beef broth for more flavor.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier top.
- Layer extra cheese inside for gooey goodness.
- Bake in a cast iron skillet for rustic appeal.
- Add chopped tomatoes for freshness.
- Mix in some horseradish for a bit of heat.
- Let the casserole rest before serving.
- Combine cheddar with Gruyère for a sophisticated flavor.
- Double the recipe for meal prepping.
- Add diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for added richness.
