Baked Beef and Noodle Casserole
This hearty oven-baked casserole unites savory layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, creamy noodles, and sharp cheddar cheese. Comforting and flavorful, this dish makes for a nostalgic, family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil used for sautéing
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional for added depth
- 4 ounces of softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion finely minced
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 can 15 ounces of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles or your preferred pasta variety
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue browning until fully cooked through, then drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes into the beef. Season with oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the sour cream until smooth. Fold in the cooked noodles, stirring to coat them evenly in the creamy mixture.
- Transfer the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Spoon the beef and tomato mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling at the edges.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.