Old-Fashioned Ground Beef Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a nostalgic dish that combines simple ingredients to create a comforting, hearty meal. The creamy layers of sour cream and cream cheese add richness, while the seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar provide savory flavors. Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s a great option for weeknight meals or casual family gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground beef

• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce

• 1 cup sour cream

• 3 ounces cream cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 8 ounces egg noodles

• 1 white onion, diced

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon white sugar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add garlic salt, salt, tomato sauce, and sugar. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles in boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse them under cold water to prevent overcooking.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, sour cream, and cream cheese. Stir the mixture until smooth.

5. Layer the casserole: Start with half of the cooked noodles in the casserole dish, followed by half of the creamy sour cream mixture, and then half of the beef sauce. Repeat the layers.

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

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

8. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or frozen peas to the beef sauce for a vegetable boost and extra flavor.

• Leaner Version: Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content while still keeping the dish hearty.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This can save time on busy days.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, include a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the ground beef sauce while it simmers.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While egg noodles work perfectly in this casserole, you can also use other pasta like rotini or penne if you prefer.

4. Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

5. How do I avoid the casserole becoming too dry?

Make sure the casserole is covered with cheese and enough sauce. If it seems too dry, add a little extra tomato sauce or a splash of water before baking.

6. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef to make a lighter version of the casserole.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta variety.

8. How can I make the casserole more cheesy?

For a cheesier version, add extra shredded cheese between the layers or sprinkle more cheese on top before baking.

9. Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

10. Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Simply portion out individual servings and store them in airtight containers for quick, reheatable meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Ground Beef Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that the whole family will love. With its creamy, cheesy layers and savory ground beef, it’s the perfect hearty meal to make ahead or serve for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying meal, this casserole delivers great flavor with minimal effort.

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