Beef Cream Cheese Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy noodles, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the ground beef.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar to the beef mixture.
- Saute chopped green onions.
- Mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, cooked noodles, and sautéed green onions together.
- Layer the beef mixture in a casserole dish, add the noodle and sour cream mixture, then top with remaining beef mixture.
- Bake at 325° to 350°F until bubbly, then sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top and heat until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra 4 oz. of cream cheese. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or use whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist. Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition. If you prefer more spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Cream Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes. Consider garnishing with extra chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it's warmed evenly without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Cream Cheese Casserole contains roughly 597 calories, with 31g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 838mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
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?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat's fat content and moisture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that will provide a similar tangy flavor. You can also use cream cheese mixed with a little milk to thin it out, or even cottage cheese for a different texture.
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).