INTRODUCTION
Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole is a rich, comforting baked dish made with tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce, finished with a golden melted cheese topping. It is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and cold evenings when a warm and filling meal is needed. This recipe combines simple pantry ingredients with classic flavors that appeal to both children and adults.
INGREDIENTS
For the casserole:
500 g egg noodles
500 g ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Optional additions:
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup sweet corn
1/2 cup chopped parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
- Boil the egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- In another saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in sour cream and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Combine cooked noodles with the beef mixture and cheese sauce.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
METHODS
Baking method:
The casserole is layered and baked in the oven so flavors blend together and the cheese forms a crust on top.
Stovetop preparation:
Beef and sauce are prepared separately before combining with noodles for even seasoning.
Layering method:
Pasta, meat, and sauce are mixed thoroughly before baking to ensure every bite is creamy and flavorful.
HISTORY
Casseroles became popular in the early 20th century in Europe and North America as practical family meals. They were designed to use affordable ingredients and feed many people at once. The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese became especially popular in American home cooking after cheese and pasta became widely available.
BENEFITS
Provides long-lasting energy
High in protein from beef and cheese
Rich in calcium for bone health
Comforting and satisfying
Easy to prepare in advance
Ideal for large families
FORMATION
The structure of this dish comes from three main layers:
Soft cooked noodles as the base
Savory seasoned beef in the center
Creamy melted cheese forming the top layer
When baked, these layers merge into one cohesive, sliceable casserole with a creamy interior and golden surface.
CONCLUSION
Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth and fullness to the table. It is easy to prepare, adaptable with vegetables, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
LOVERS
Loved by cheese lovers
Perfect for pasta fans
Popular with children
Enjoyed by busy families
Ideal for potluck gatherings
METHODS
Alternative method with cream soup:
Replace homemade sauce with 1 can cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk and sour cream.
Spicy method:
Add chili flakes or jalapeños for heat.
Vegetable method:
Add spinach, carrots, or zucchini for more nutrition.
NUTRITION (APPROXIMATE PER SERVING)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 28 g
Calcium: 25% daily value
Iron: 15% daily value
CONCLUSION
This casserole is a complete meal that balances protein, carbohydrates, and fats in a comforting baked dish. It can be customized to suit different tastes while keeping its rich and creamy character.
LOVERS
A favorite of comfort food lovers
A classic for cheese enthusiasts
A trusted family dinner choice
A warm dish for cold evenings
A crowd-pleaser at gatherings