Name: Beef Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces egg noodles; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 ounces tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

I grew up on dishes like this Beef Noodle Casserole, and to this day, it remains one of my favorite go-to comfort meals. It’s hearty, cheesy, loaded with flavor, and incredibly easy to throw together on a weeknight. The tender egg noodles wrapped in a rich, meaty tomato sauce, all blanketed under melted cheddar—honestly, what’s not to love? Every bite feels like a warm hug after a long day.

I love how forgiving and flexible this dish is. Whether I’m cleaning out the fridge or looking to make something satisfying without a lot of prep, this casserole always hits the spot. It’s a family-friendly classic that feeds a crowd and tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples, which makes it a staple in my own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Noodle Casserole

Beef Noodle Casserole checks all the boxes for an easy and crowd-pleasing meal. It’s quick to prep, satisfying, and rich in flavor, with tender noodles, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a casual family dinner, this dish brings everyone to the table with zero complaints. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option when life gets busy.

What Type of Noodles Should I Use for Beef Noodle Casserole?

I always go for wide egg noodles when making Beef Noodle Casserole. Their soft, slightly chewy texture holds up well under the rich meat sauce and melted cheese. Plus, they cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni can step in, but I promise the classic egg noodles really bring this dish home.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how easy it is to adapt:

Meat: Ground beef is the star, but ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles will work just fine.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that golden, melty finish, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
Sauce: I like to use a can of tomato sauce with some extra herbs added in, but a jar of your favorite marinara or even fire-roasted crushed tomatoes will do the trick.
Add-ins: Sneak in some veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini if you’re looking to bulk it up or add more nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free noodles and double-check your sauce and cheese labels to keep things safe for gluten sensitivities.

This dish is all about convenience and comfort, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.

Ingredients for This Beef Noodle Casserole

Egg Noodles
These are the base of the casserole, offering a soft, comforting bite that absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
Ground Beef
Lean ground beef brings a rich, hearty flavor and plenty of protein to the dish. It’s the foundation of the meat sauce.
Yellow Onion
Sautéed onion adds depth and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the beef.
Garlic
Just a couple of cloves, minced, go a long way in elevating the sauce with bold, aromatic notes.
Tomato Sauce
This binds everything together, coating the noodles and beef in a tangy, flavorful base.
Italian Seasoning
A simple mix of herbs that adds warmth and a hint of Mediterranean flair to the sauce.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning the beef and sauce—don’t skip these.
Cheddar Cheese
Melted on top for that irresistible, gooey layer of cheesy goodness that pulls it all together.
Fresh Parsley (optional)
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a fresh finish before serving.

Step 1

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 3

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl or directly in a greased 9×13 baking dish, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and sauce mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7

Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. If you like a slightly crispy top, broil for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it.

Step 8

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm!

How Long to Cook the Beef Noodle Casserole

The casserole itself only needs 15–20 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) since all the components are already cooked. You’re mainly baking to melt the cheese and bring everything together. If you want a crispier, golden top, pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end—but don’t walk away!

Tips for Perfect Beef Noodle Casserole

Don’t overcook the noodles. Slightly undercook them so they don’t get mushy when baked.
Drain the beef well. Too much grease can make the casserole oily and heavy.
Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as nicely because of added anti-caking agents.
Let it rest before serving. Give it 5–10 minutes out of the oven so it sets slightly—it makes serving easier and the flavors more balanced.
Add spice if you like heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the sauce adds a little kick.
Use a deep baking dish. This helps prevent overflow and gives room for a generous layer of cheese on top.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Boiling the noodles too long
Overcooked noodles will turn mushy once baked. Always cook them just until al dente.
Skipping the seasoning
Ground beef and tomato sauce need a generous pinch of salt and pepper, plus herbs, to avoid a bland casserole.
Using too much sauce
Too much liquid can make the dish soupy. Stick to the right ratio of sauce to noodles.
Forgetting to grease the baking dish
This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier—don’t skip it.
Uneven cheese distribution
Layer the cheese evenly so every bite gets that gooey, melty goodness.
Not draining the beef properly
Excess grease can make the casserole greasy. Take a moment to drain it after browning.

What to Serve With Beef Noodle Casserole?

A Crisp Green Salad

A fresh, tangy salad with a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans

Lightly steamed or roasted, these veggies add color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.

Roasted Tomatoes or Cherry Tomato Salad

Their acidity brings a bright contrast to the cheesy, meaty casserole.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair wonderfully with beef and cheese—try them on the side or even mixed into the casserole.

Deviled Eggs

They add a creamy, tangy element to round out a full dinner spread.

Dill Pickles or Pickled Veggies

Surprisingly good alongside rich comfort food—adds a briny, crunchy bite.

A Glass of Red Wine or Iced Tea

Pair it with a bold red (like Zinfandel) or a refreshing iced tea for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Instructions

Beef Noodle Casserole stores like a dream, which makes it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

In the Fridge: Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat larger servings in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). Add a splash of water or broth if it seems a little dry.
Freezing: You can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~480
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 720mg
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 30g

Note: These numbers are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best type of cheese for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is my go-to—it melts well and has a rich, bold flavor. Mozzarella or a blend like Colby Jack also works great.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble it up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake when you’re ready, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cook time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze it after baking?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with foil and freeze. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge first.

What can I add for more vegetables?

Chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded carrots can be added to the meat mixture before baking. Just sauté them briefly first so they don’t release too much water.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the beef while cooking. A few dashes of hot sauce in the sauce also do the trick.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free egg noodles and checking that your tomato sauce and cheese are certified gluten-free.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken are excellent leaner alternatives. Just make sure to season them well for flavor.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?

Nope—bake it uncovered so the cheese gets nice and melty, and the top can lightly brown. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil toward the end.

Conclusion

Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate cozy dinner—easy, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals ahead, or just craving some classic comfort food, this dish always delivers. From its creamy, cheesy top to the savory layers of pasta and beef underneath, it’s a weeknight winner you’ll come back to again and again.