Beef Noodle Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, egg noodles, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups uncooked egg noodles
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef Opt for lean to reduce excess grease
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- to taste Salt & pepper
Cheese
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheddar blend (or just use cheddar) For topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and adjust the oven rack to the top third.
- Cook the egg noodles in boiling water for one or two minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a 9x13 casserole dish.
Cooking
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks for about 8-10 minutes.
- Once browned, stir in the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Spoon out excess fat if necessary.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, mixing it with the beef mixture and warming it through.
- Combine the beef mixture with the drained egg noodles in the casserole dish, adding half of the shredded cheese. Toss until well combined and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Optionally, broil for a few minutes for a browned top, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serving
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread if desired.
Notes
You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different cheeses. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.