Description
This Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender egg noodles combined with a rich and creamy tomato-based ground beef sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to bubbly perfection, it’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounce bag egg noodles
Sauce and Meat
- 2 Tablespoons butter (can use salted or unsalted)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 14 ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (can use regular or leave it out)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Additions and Cheese
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until just tender, taking care not to overcook. Drain well and set aside to prevent sogginess during baking.
- Sauté Vegetables and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and mix in the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to ensure all noodles are thoroughly coated with the creamy beef mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the noodle and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the noodles before baking to avoid mushy texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, but it can be omitted if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: beef noodle casserole, baked noodle casserole, creamy beef pasta bake, comfort food casserole, family dinner recipe
