Description
Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole
This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients:
500g ground beef
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed veggies
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a pan, cook the beef until brown, then add onions and garlic.
Boil egg noodles, then drain.
Combine beef, noodles, veggies, and cream in a bowl, season with salt and pepper.
Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
Enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
- Prep & Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the noodles.
- Cook the Base: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare Components: While the beef cooks, add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Take the frozen mixed vegetables out to begin thawing slightly.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained noodles, cooked beef mixture, thawed veggies, and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly to ensure the cream coats everything. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Assemble & Bake: Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for easier serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a crunchier texture contrast, serve with garlic bread or breadsticks. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives on top adds a fresh, cool finish.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onions and garlic. Boil and drain egg noodles. Mix beef, noodles, frozen veggies, and cream in a bowl. Season, transfer to a dish, top with cheese, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works well. Adjust cooking time to the package instructions for al dente.
How can I make this recipe lighter? Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for a reduced-fat cheese blend.
My casserole seems dry. What happened? The most common cause is overcooking the noodles, which then absorb too much sauce. Ensure you cook noodles to just al dente. You can also add an extra 1/4 cup of cream or a can of cream of mushroom soup for more moisture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 160°C (325°F) oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: They will continue to cook in the oven. Boil only until al dente to prevent a mushy texture.
- Not Draining the Beef: Excess fat from the beef can make the casserole greasy. Always drain it after browning.
- Using Shredded Cheese Too Early: Only add the cheese topping right before baking. Adding it during the mixing stage can cause it to clump and not melt properly on top.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately will cause it to be very runny. Letting it rest allows the sauce to set.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole is the epitome of reliable, comforting home cooking. With its simple ingredients, straightforward process, and endlessly customizable nature, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a trusted favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and deliver a creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy the delicious results of your easy kitchen effort!