I love making this Easy Ground Beef Casserole when I need a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with simple pantry ingredients. It combines seasoned ground beef, pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese into a satisfying family-friendly dinner that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is easy to prepare and uses ingredients I often already have on hand. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey cheese creates a comforting casserole that everyone looks forward to eating. I also like that it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated later without losing its flavor or texture.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (200 g) uncooked egg noodles
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente, then drain and set them aside.
I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced onion for about 3 to 4 minutes.
I add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
I drain any excess grease and stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
I simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
I combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
I bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
I sometimes replace the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
I like adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
I occasionally use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
I add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want a little heat.
I sometimes mix in a cup of sour cream for a creamier casserole.
storage/reheating
I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I warm portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or bake the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, I add a small splash of broth before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble the casserole several hours in advance and refrigerate it until I am ready to bake it.
Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Yes, I assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What type of pasta works best?
I usually use egg noodles, but rotini, penne, or macaroni also work very well.
How do I keep the casserole from becoming dry?
I make sure not to overbake it and use enough sauce and broth to keep the pasta moist.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. I often add peas, corn, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the casserole even more nutritious.
Conclusion
I find this Easy Ground Beef Casserole to be one of the most reliable comfort food recipes for busy days. The simple ingredients, rich flavors, and cheesy topping make it a meal I can count on whenever I need something satisfying and family-friendly. Whether I serve it fresh from the oven or enjoy leftovers the next day, it always delivers a delicious and comforting dinner.
A hearty and comforting ground beef casserole made with egg noodles, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (200 g) uncooked egg noodles
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
Drain excess grease, then stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Combine cooked noodles with the beef mixture and stir well to coat evenly.
Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese can replace cheddar for a different flavor.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
