Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Classic Beef Noodle Casserole – Step-by-Step Guide

This classic beef noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The combination of tender egg noodles, savory beef in tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, all baked with golden melted cheddar on top, creates a dish that’s hearty, filling, and satisfying.

 Ingredients 

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef (85–90%) is ideal for flavor without too much grease.

• 2 cans (15 oz. each) tomato sauce – Provides the rich tomato base for the beef mixture.

• 1 large white onion, diced – Adds sweetness and texture to the creamy layer.

• 1 package (8 oz.) egg noodles – Egg noodles hold up well and absorb flavor beautifully.

• 1 cup sour cream – Makes the dish creamy and adds a tangy flavor.

• 1 package (3 oz.) cream cheese – Blends with sour cream to create a smooth, rich texture.

• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts over the top, giving that gooey, savory finish. Use more to taste if desired.

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances the flavor of the meat and sauce.

• 1 teaspoon salt – Seasons the overall dish.

• 1 teaspoon white sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef (8–10 minutes)

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and crumbly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain the excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.

Tip: Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks for better texture.

 Step 2: Add Tomato Sauce & Seasoning (20 minutes)

Add both cans of tomato sauce to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir in the garlic salt, regular salt, and white sugar. Mix everything together thoroughly. Let this simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

 Tip: If the mixture thickens too much, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it slightly.

Once cooked, remove from heat and cover the skillet to keep warm while preparing the other components.

 Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles (10 minutes)

In a large pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the egg noodles and cook until they are al dente (firm to the bite), usually about 6–8 minutes. Do not overcook, as they will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain the noodles and rinse briefly with cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them from sticking together.

 Step 4: Preheat Oven and Grease Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.

 Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced white onion, sour cream, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth. You can use a hand mixer for best results, or mash and mix with a fork if you prefer a chunkier texture.

Tip: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.

 Step 6: Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes)

Begin layering in the greased casserole dish:

1. Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly across the bottom.

2. Add half of the sour cream and onion mixture, spreading it out over the noodles.

3. Top with half of the beef and tomato sauce mixture.

4. Repeat the layers: the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and finally the rest of the beef mixture.

   🔹 Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese (1 minute)

   Sprinkle ½ cup (or more) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the top layer. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden crust in the oven.

   Optional: For extra flavor, add a bit of mozzarella or parmesan along with cheddar.

    Step 8: Bake the Casserole (25–30 minutes)

   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling around the edges. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.

   Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve clean slices.

    Serving Suggestions

   Serve this casserole with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a balanced meal.

    Variations and Tips

   • Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

   • Add veggies: Mix in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrients.

   • Swap the meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.

   • Make it spicier: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef sauce.

   This cheesy beef noodle casserole is rich, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and reheats beautifully—ideal for busy families or meal prepping!

enjoy!