This Classic Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner. It’s cozy, cheesy, and brings that hearty, home-cooked vibe we all crave after a long day. Layers of tender egg noodles, creamy sour cream and cream cheese, and rich tomato-beef sauce come together for a dish that feels like a warm hug. Let me tell you, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Let me take you back to one of those nights when everything went sideways. You know, the kind where the laundry’s piled up, you forgot to defrost the chicken, and everyone’s this close to ordering takeout? That’s when this casserole swooped in like a hero in a cheesy cape.
My grandma used to call it her “emergency dinner.” She could throw it together in no time, and somehow, it still felt special. I remember sitting at her table, the smell of bubbling cheddar wafting through the air, while she told stories about her first kitchen mishaps (spoiler: she once tried to bake cookies with salt instead of sugar).
Even now, every time I layer those noodles, I feel a little of her magic. This casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s a piece of family history. And trust me, it tastes even better when you’ve had “one of those days.”
Why You’ll Love This Classic Ground Beef Casserole Recipe?
- Quick and Easy: It’s done in 40 minutes, start to finish. Perfect for those “what’s for dinner?” moments.
- Kid-Approved: It’s cheesy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. Even picky eaters can’t say no.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready—stress-free meal planning!
- Customizable Layers: Love spice? Add chili flakes. Prefer more veggies? Toss in some spinach or mushrooms.
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s the rundown on what makes this casserole shine:
- Ground Beef: Use lean beef to avoid a greasy casserole. Ground turkey works, too, if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Egg Noodles: These soak up the sauce perfectly. If you’re gluten-free, swap in a GF-friendly pasta.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds that tangy, savory base. For extra depth, use fire-roasted tomatoes or a splash of red wine.
- Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: This dynamic duo creates the creamy middle layer. Greek yogurt can step in if needed.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
- Onion: Diced onion adds a slight crunch and sweetness. Sauté it first if you want a milder flavor.
How To Make Classic Ground Beef Casserole?
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Season with garlic salt, regular salt, and mix in the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the beef simmers, boil your egg noodles in salted water. Cook until al dente—nobody wants mushy noodles. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, sour cream, and cream cheese. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy. This layer is the glue that holds all the flavors together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch dish. Start layering: half the noodles, half the creamy mixture, half the beef mixture. Then repeat. Top it all off with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
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Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pro tip: That bubbling cheese? Totally worth the wait.
Storage Options:
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results. Want to freeze it? Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Protein Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great.
- Cheese Choices: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a smoky Gouda for a flavor twist.
- Veggie Additions: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini can add a healthy boost.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef for some heat.
What to Serve with Classic Ground Beef Casserole?
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs + carbs = happiness.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans pair perfectly with the creamy, cheesy layers.
- A Glass of Red Wine: A Merlot or Pinot Noir complements the hearty flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Can I use a different pasta?
Definitely. Penne, rotini, or shells are all great options.
How do I know it’s done?
Look for bubbling edges and a golden cheese top—it’s your signal to dig in!
I’d love to hear how your Classic Ground Beef Casserole turns out! Did you add a unique twist or keep it classic? Let me know in the comments—I’m always curious to see how others make it their own!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Classic Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 2 cans 15 oz. each tomato sauce
- 1 large white onion diced
- 1 package 8 oz. egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 package 3 oz. cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or more, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp white sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic salt, salt, and tomato sauce, mixing thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
Cook the Egg Noodles:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly on the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Layer half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef mixture.
Add the Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top layer. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure clean slices. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
