Baked Beef And Noodle Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining ground beef, noodles, and creamy mushroom sauce topped with cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the small onion and brown it with the ground beef.
- Season the beef and onion mixture to taste.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and water to the beef mixture.
- Cook the noodles until tender.
- Combine the beef mixture with the cooked noodles.
- Pour everything into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using onion powder or garlic powder along with the onion when browning the beef. If you want a creamier texture, replace half the milk with sour cream. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cheese soup for a different twist. For a healthier option, try whole wheat noodles or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Beef and Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls make excellent sides to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra flavor boost, serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving. It’s a comforting dish that fits perfectly into any family dinner rotation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beef And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 522 calories, with 17g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef for a different flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked. Ground sausage can also be a tasty alternative, adding a bit of spice to the dish.
What kind of noodles work best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are the traditional choice for this casserole, but you can also use rotini or penne for a different texture. Just make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).