Before we dive in, let me just say—thank you for stopping by! It means the world to me that you’re here, ready to share a comforting bite with the people you love. If you enjoy simple, soul-warming recipes like this, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a delicious idea—straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole
Ground beef casserole is the answer to those busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, satisfying dinner with minimal fuss. Layers of tender egg noodles, savory ground beef simmered in tomato sauce, and a creamy blend of sour cream and cream cheese—anything but boring!!
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! This casserole is endlessly customizable, easy to prep ahead, and makes the whole house smell like home when it’s baking. I’m kicking myself for not having shot a video of the bubbly cheese crust coming out of the oven—it’s that good!
What Does Ground Beef Casserole Taste Like?
It’s rich, creamy, and savory with a hint of sweetness from the tomato sauce. The egg noodles soak up all the flavors, while the melted cheddar on top adds that perfect golden, cheesy finish. Every bite is pure comfort.
Benefits of Making This Casserole
✅ Quick and easy
✅ Perfect for meal prep
✅ Feeds a crowd
✅ Kid-friendly
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Customizable to your taste
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Cooking spray
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Swap egg noodles for penne, rotini, or even potatoes!
- Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a twist.
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole
1️⃣ Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Drain the excess grease.
2️⃣ Simmer the Sauce
Add garlic salt, salt, and tomato sauce to the beef. Stir well and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cover.
3️⃣ Cook the Noodles
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
5️⃣ Make the Creamy Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine diced onion, sour cream, and cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
6️⃣ Layer the Casserole
Layer half the noodles in the casserole dish. Top with half the sour cream mixture, then half the beef mixture. Repeat. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
7️⃣ Bake and Enjoy
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest a few minutes—then dig in!
What to Serve with Ground Beef Casserole
- A fresh green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Pickles for a tangy bite
Tips for the Best Casserole Ever
- Don’t overcook the noodles—they’ll keep cooking in the oven!
- Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before cutting to help it set.
- Double the recipe and freeze one for a busy night later!
How to Store It
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze ground beef casserole?
Yes—assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
If you’re craving a warm, filling, and easy dinner, this ground beef casserole will not disappoint. Simple, flavorful, and made with pantry staples—it’s comfort food at its best!
👉 If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it! Leave a review below and share your casserole photos on Pinterest—tag me so I can drool over your cheesy masterpiece!
More Cozy Recipes You’ll Love
- Cheesy Biscuit Pot Pie
- Beef Brisket Slow Cooker Recipe
- Make-Ahead Sausage Casserole
- Classic Earthquake Cake
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (1 of 8):
Calories: 380
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 20g
Happy cooking, friends—here’s to warm kitchens and full bellies! ❤️✨
Leave a Reply