Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Name: Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces egg noodles; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups crispy French onions; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); Diced bell pepper (optional); Mushrooms (optional)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: October 27, 2025

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Introduction to Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Life can get so busy, especially when you’re a mom running to keep it all together. On those days when I am aiming to prepare something yummy and quick, enter my Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole! It’s that warm sweater on a chilly evening. One-pot creamy wholesome casserole with soft noodles and flavorsome beef is a dish to win all the hearts on the table, whether they are of your guests or of your family members. Whether you’re having company over or it’s just another night at home with your loved ones, this comfort-food casserole takes all of the effort out of dinnertime. Believe me, it will be a new staple in your house!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

This Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole is a busy cook’s dream! You can whip it up in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights. The comforting flavors and creamy textures will have your family asking for seconds! Plus, it holds up beautifully for leftovers, so you can savor that deliciousness again. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursts with flavor—a classic recipe that brings joy to every bite!

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting this scrumptious Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole. Below, I’ll walk you through each component, so you know exactly what to grab from the store or your kitchen!

Ground beef: This hearty protein forms the base of the dish, bringing savory goodness.
Egg noodles: These tender noodles create the perfect vehicle for all that creamy cheese and sauce.
Cream of mushroom soup: A creamy, rich addition that contributes to the overall decadence.
Sour cream: This adds tanginess and helps achieve that lovely creamy texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient! The more cheese, the better, right?
Crispy French onions: These little gems are the secret crunch factor, adding texture to each bite.
Onion powder: A sprinkle to enhance the savory flavors without overpowering the dish.
Garlic powder: Because everything is better with a touch of garlic for added depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance out the flavors and elevate the dish.
Frozen peas (optional): A pop of color and nutrition, adding a hint of sweetness.
Diced bell pepper (optional): For a bit of crunch and freshness, feel free to customize!
Mushrooms (optional): Add them if you love their earthy flavor; they meld beautifully with the other ingredients.

Don’t worry; if you want precise amounts for each ingredient, they’re listed at the bottom of the article, ready for easy printing!

How to Make Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Prepare the Oven and Noodles

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F. While it’s warming up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the egg noodles. Cook them for about a minute less than what the package suggests. You want them just tender, as they’ll continue to cook in the casserole. Trust me, nobody wants mushy noodles!

Once done, drain the noodles and return them to the pot. You can drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking. This step isn’t mandatory, but it is super helpful. Just like that, your noodles are ready to mingle with the delicious beef and creamy goodness soon!

Cook the Beef

Now let’s move on to the star of the show: the ground beef! Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the ground beef. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles. It should be nicely browned after about 6-8 minutes.

After that, carefully drain the excess fat from the pan. Nobody wants greasy casserole, right? While it still sizzles slightly, sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well, ensuring the seasonings coat every tasty bit of meat. The aroma will make your mouth water and have you dreaming of that cheesy casserole!

Mix the Ingredients

Time to combine all those fabulous flavors! In a spacious mixing bowl, add the cooked beef, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. That creamy layer is what makes a Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole irresistible!

Make sure to stir all those ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined. It’s like a big hug of flavors waiting to happen! If you’re tossing in optional ingredients like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms, now’s the perfect moment. Just fold them gently in; we want them to be evenly spread without a rough treatment.

Once mixed, the combination should look creamy and inviting. Feel free to taste-test a tiny bit at this stage. Trust me, you’ll want to make sure they’re seasoned just right!

Transfer and Bake

Now comes the fun part: transferring that delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly, so every bite gets the same rich flavor.

To top things off, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cheese on cheese? Yes, please! Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for it to get heated through and a little bubbly. Just imagine the gooey cheese melting into that creamy goodness!

Add Crunchy Topping

After the initial baking, it’s time for the finishing touch: crispy French onions! Remove the casserole from the oven carefully and sprinkle 1 ½ cups of those crunchy little treasures evenly over the top. This adds that perfect crunch and extra flavor to your casserole.

Return the dish to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want those onions to become golden-brown and irresistibly crispy. The aroma wafting from the oven will be nothing short of sensational—it’ll be hard to wait!

Rest and Serve

Once that final baking time is up, take your casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to portion when serving. Trust me, the wait will be worth it for those beautiful, cheesy slices!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the noodles; they’ll soften more during baking.
Mix in veggies for extra nutrition and color—frozen peas and bell peppers are great options!

Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in the fridge.
For added flair, switch up the cheese—Monterey Jack or pepper jack can spice things up!
Consider using a spray oil to grease the casserole dish for easier cleanup.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling the noodles; a Dutch oven works, too!
Skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet will handle your ground beef perfectly.
Mixing bowl: A big one helps for easy mixing; a large measuring bowl does just fine.
Casserole dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal; any oven-safe dish will work equally well.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for getting those ingredients just right.

Variations of Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Feel free to load it with more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef for a zesty touch.
Creamy White Sauce: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, use a homemade white sauce for a richer flavor profile.
Italian Influence: Mix in Italian seasoning and top with mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Pot for gluten-free egg noodles and check that your soup is gluten-free for a safe, delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Bread Rolls: Serve warm dinner rolls for dipping into that cheesy goodness.
Drink Options: A light iced tea or lemonade complements the richness perfectly.
Presentation: Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color!

FAQs about Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Can I make Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven to bake. This recipe is ideal for busy nights!

How do I store leftovers of Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole?

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it into airtight containers and refrigerate. It should last up to 3-4 days. Just reheat portions in the microwave or oven before enjoying again.

Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole?

Yes! You can freeze this casserole for up to three months. Just make sure it’s completely cool before covering tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking it again.

Is it possible to customize the ingredients?

Definitely! You can add your favorite vegetables, use different cheeses, or even swap out the ground beef for turkey or a vegetarian substitute. The Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole is quite adaptable!

What can I serve with this casserole?

Consider pairing it with a fresh salad, warm bread rolls, or even some roasted vegetables. The hearty flavors of the casserole go wonderfully with a light and crisp accompaniment!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole has been one of my delightful kitchen adventures! It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table and share laughter. With each cheesy, comforting bite, I’m reminded of the joys of home cooking. This recipe doesn’t just fill bellies; it warms hearts and creates memories. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole brings comfort, convenience, and a bit of magic to the table. I hope it becomes as cherished in your home as it is in mine!