Easy Beef Noodle Casserole
A hearty and comforting beef noodle casserole combining savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles until al dente.
- Sauté chopped onion, green pepper, and ground beef until beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Combine cooked noodles, sautéed mixture, tomato soup, water, and salt in a casserole dish.
- Mix water and tomato soup together separately.
- Pour the mixture over the noodle and meat mixture in the casserole dish.
- Mix well to combine.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this Easy Beef Noodle Casserole, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking. Make sure not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to soften while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Beef Noodle Casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warm, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Beef Noodle Casserole contains roughly 421 calories, with 11g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for noodles, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta to ensure it reaches al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of crushed tomatoes mixed with a little water or vegetable broth. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce can work as well. Just season it with salt and any desired herbs to enhance the flavor.
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).