Angel Beef Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Noodle Casserole

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or freezer meals!

Ingredients

 For the Beef and Noodle Base:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups cooked egg noodles or any short pasta like rotini or penne

 For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional garnish)

 Preparation

 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Set aside.

 Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

3. Drain excess fat from the skillet.

4. Add the chopped onion and cook for another 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.

 Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Seasonings

1. Stir in:

   • Diced tomatoes (with juice)

   • Tomato sauce

   • Kidney beans (rinsed & drained)

   • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

   • 1 tsp garlic powder

   • 1 tsp chili powder (optional)

   • Salt and pepper to taste

2. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat so flavors blend.

 Step 4: Combine with Cooked Noodles

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • The cooked beef mixture

   • 2 cups of cooked egg noodles or pasta

2. Gently mix everything until the noodles are evenly coated with the beef sauce.

 Step 5: Make the Cheese Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Mix well until fully blended into a rich, creamy topping.

 Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the beef-noodle mixture into your greased baking dish.

2. Spread evenly and smooth the top.

3. Spoon the cheese mixture over the top and gently spread it across the surface.

 Step 7: Bake

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until:

  • The topping is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

 Step 8: Serve and Garnish

• Remove from oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes.

• Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives before serving (optional but adds great freshness and color).

 Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed veggies.

• Serve warm with garlic bread or crusty rolls.

• Great for leftovers — just reheat and enjoy!

 Storage Tips:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze fully cooked and cooled casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

 Why You’ll Love It:

• Budget-friendly and filling

• Kid-approved comfort food

• Easy to make ahead or freeze

• A great way to use pantry staples