If you’ve been searching for a hearty, comforting dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is satisfying to eat, this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with creamy mushroom sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked egg noodles, and then topped with a golden, melted cheddar cheese blanket that brings everything together in pure delicious harmony. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or craving a cozy meal on a weeknight, this casserole hits all the right notes with simple ingredients and big flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and work together to create a dish that is beautiful in both flavor and texture. Each component has its role, from the savory ground beef to the creamy soup and tangy sour cream, which makes the casserole irresistibly rich and comforting.
- Ground beef: Use 1 pound of lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease.
- Onion: One diced onion adds a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the meat’s richness.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This brings a velvety creaminess and depth of flavor that holds the casserole together.
- Sour cream: Half a cup provides a subtle tang and smooth texture that lightens the sauce.
- Cheddar cheese: One cup of shredded cheddar creates a melty, golden crust that invites you in bite after bite.
- Cooked egg noodles: Two cups add a comforting, tender heartiness that soaks up all the flavors brilliantly.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight and balance all the other ingredients perfectly.
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready to bake your casserole to bubbly perfection once your stovetop preparations are complete.
Step 2: Brown the beef and onions
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the meat is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This first step builds your dish’s rich, savory foundation with caramelized aromas that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 3: Combine the soup, sour cream, and noodles
Add the can of cream of mushroom soup and the sour cream directly into the skillet with the beef and onions, stirring well until smooth. Then fold in the cooked egg noodles, ensuring every strand is coated with the creamy sauce, making the casserole cohesive and flavorful.
Step 4: Transfer and top with cheese
Move the entire mixture into a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbly topping that adds texture contrast and rich flavor.
Step 5: Bake until bubbly and golden
Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes. Once it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted and slightly browned, it’s ready to come out of the oven and onto your table.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and colorful touch, sprinkle finely chopped parsley or fresh chives over the hot casserole right before serving. The pop of green brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle freshness that balances the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Their lightness and natural crunch provide a perfect contrast to the silky, cheesy comfort of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins and garnish each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika for a smoky touch. Alternatively, add some pickled jalapeños or hot sauce on the side for those who love a bit of heat alongside the creamy base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Ground Beef Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option for busy days.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture intact and flavors fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven until heated through, around 20 minutes. Reheating in individual portions in the microwave works too, just be sure to cover loosely to retain moisture and avoid drying out the noodles.
FAQs
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you want a homemade or lighter option, you can use a béchamel sauce or substitute with plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little mushroom broth and seasonings. This keeps the creamy texture but cuts down on processed ingredients.
Can I use different types of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, penne, rotini, or shells all work well and add a different texture depending on your preference.
Are there vegetarian options for this casserole?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils or crumbled tofu, and use a vegetable cream soup to keep it hearty without meat. Adding sautéed mushrooms and extra vegetables can boost flavor and texture.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
Using lean ground beef or ground turkey helps lower fat content, and swapping sour cream with Greek yogurt adds protein while reducing calories. Adding extra vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach can increase fiber and nutrients.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or for planning ahead for family dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort, convenience, and great taste all in one pan. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a longtime fan, this recipe is an easy and dependable choice to satisfy hungry appetites and warm your heart. Give it a try, and I promise it will find a happy spot on your regular meal rotation!
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Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A classic comfort food casserole featuring savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy, budget-friendly dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
Sauce and Dairy
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (about 10.5 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) to ensure it’s hot and ready by the time your casserole mixture is prepared.
- Brown Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked, and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix Sauce and Noodles: Stir the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream into the beef and onion mixture until well combined. Add the cooked egg noodles and mix everything thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef, sauce, and noodle mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a golden, melted crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden around the edges.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
- Add peas, mushrooms, or other vegetables to increase flavor and nutrition.
- Ensure noodles are cooked al dente to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
