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🧀 Ground Beef Casserole

Updated on 4 min read

Comforting, Cheesy, and Perfect for Family Dinners

Introduction

Few dishes bring the whole family to the table like a warm, bubbling Ground Beef Casserole. This classic comfort food layers hearty ground beef in a seasoned tomato sauce, creamy sour cream and cream cheese, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, all topped with melted Cheddar cheese.

Simple to prepare and endlessly satisfying, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s a reliable and crowd-pleasing dinner option.

🍽️ Recipe Overview

  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Skill Level: Easy
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Course: Main
  • Cuisine: American
  • Calories: ~420 kcal per serving (approximate)

🛒 Ingredients and Their Purpose

Ground Beef

1 lb
Provides the hearty, protein-packed base of the casserole.

Tip: Use lean beef to reduce excess grease.

Tomato Sauce

2 cans (15 oz each)
Creates a rich, savory meat sauce for the beef layer.

White Onion

1 large, diced
Adds aromatic sweetness and texture to the creamy layer.

Egg Noodles

1 package (8 oz)
Wide noodles that hold the sauce and layers together beautifully.

Sour Cream

1 cup
Provides tang and creaminess to balance the tomato sauce.

Cream Cheese

1 package (3 oz)
Adds a rich, smooth texture to the middle layer.

Cheddar Cheese

½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar (or more to taste)
Melted on top for the perfect gooey finish.

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white sugar
    Enhance flavor and balance acidity in the tomato sauce.

🔪 Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • 9×13-inch casserole dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cooking spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Sauce

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 lb ground beef until browned and crumbly.
  2. Drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in:
    • 1 tsp garlic salt
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 2 cans tomato sauce
    • 1 tsp sugar
  4. Mix well and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add 8 oz egg noodles and cook until al dente (check package instructions).
  3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer

  1. In a bowl, mix together:
    • 1 large diced onion
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 3 oz cream cheese
  2. Stir until smooth and combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Layer as follows:
    • Half of the noodles
    • Half of the sour cream mixture
    • Half of the beef mixture
    • Repeat the same layers
  4. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

🧂 Flavor & Texture Profile

  • Creamy and savory from sour cream and cream cheese
  • Rich and comforting tomato-beef base
  • Mild sweetness to balance acidity
  • Golden melted cheese with crisp edges for contrast

🔄 Variations and Add-Ins

Protein Options

  • Use ground turkey or ground chicken
  • Add crumbled sausage for extra spice

Vegetables

  • Add corn, spinach, or bell peppers to the beef mixture
  • Sautéed mushrooms add umami depth

Cheese

  • Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or a blend
  • Add extra cheese between the layers for even more richness

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook the noodles—al dente holds up best in the oven
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing
  • Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing
  • Double the recipe for larger gatherings and freeze leftovers

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Freezing

  • Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers for up to 2 months

Reheating

  • Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil, or microwave individual portions

❓ FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it after baking?
Absolutely—let it cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Is it spicy?
No, this recipe is mild. Add chili flakes or diced green chiles for heat.

🧾 Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: ~700 mg

🧘 Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless comfort meal—hearty, cheesy, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry crowd, this baked classic is sure to please every time.

Let me know if you’d like a printable version, low-carb variation, or want this styled into a cookbook section. Ready for the next one!

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