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
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Add the chopped onion and cook for another 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Seasonings
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
Mix everything well and let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat so flavors blend.
Step 4: Combine with Cooked Noodles
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
The cooked beef mixture
2 cups of cooked egg noodles or pasta
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
Pour the beef-noodle mixture into your greased baking dish.
Spread evenly and smooth the top.
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