There's nothing quite like the aroma of a hot casserole wafting from the kitchen, warming your heart and home. Among the numerous comfort food options, a beef noodle casserole stands out for its rich flavor, hearty ingredients, and the fact that it's the ultimate family-friendly meal. This dish marries the richness of ground beef with tender egg noodles and a luscious tomato sauce, creating a satisfying one-pot meal that is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for the week. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to create a beef noodle casserole that will become a staple in your comfort food repertoire.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the beef noodle casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 12 ounces of egg noodles (use whole wheat noodles for more fiber)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (use vegan cheese if desired)
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these steps for a delicious beef noodle casserole:
Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the beef as it cooks. Once it's no longer pink, transfer the beef to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it's soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute until the mixture is fragrant.
Add the Tomato Sauce
Return the browned beef to the skillet with the onion and spices. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Noodles
While the beef mixture simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, but slightly undercooking them since they'll continue to cook in the oven. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Combine the Noodles and Beef Mixture
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and tomato mixture. Mix until the noodles are thoroughly coated with the sauce.
Layer the Casserole
In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, spread half of the beef and noodle mixture. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese. Add the remaining beef and noodle mixture, followed by the rest of the cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast).
Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Meal Prep Tips
To save time on busy days, prepare the casserole up to the point before baking. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
When it's time to bring your casserole to the table, garnish it with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve generous portions with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad to balance out the meal.
Conclusion
This beef noodle casserole is not just a comforting meal but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to various dietary needs. Feel free to add your own twist with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost. And don't forget to reach out and share your culinary adventures with this recipe. Whether it's your go-to Friday night dinner or a secret weapon in your meal prep routine, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite for all who savor its comforting flavors.
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