Beef In Casserole
A hearty and comforting beef casserole featuring tender ground beef layered with noodles, creamy cheese mixture, and a savory mushroom sauce. Rich in flavor with hints of garlic and tomato, this dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a satisfying, cheesy, and savory experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in butter; drain excess fat.
- Add garlic juice and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar; simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
- In a large casserole dish or two smaller ones, layer cooked noodles, meat mixture, grated cheese, and sour cream mixture in that order.
- Cover the top with undiluted cream of mushroom soup.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle extra grated cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of ricotta cheese with the cream cheese and sour cream. If you're short on time, you can substitute the egg noodles with pre-cooked pasta. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor profile, while adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture gives it an extra depth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of Crunchy Romaine Salad for a refreshing contrast. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a simple green bean dish. This dish is filling on its own, but you can complement it with garlic bread or a slice of Fiesta Banana Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef In Casserole contains roughly 530 calories, with 23g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1931mg per serving (84% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for the recommended baking time. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use ground beef if you prefer. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a meat substitute, which can make it a delicious vegetarian recipe while maintaining a hearty texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly, usually around 30 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C). You can also check with a thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
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).