If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Beef Noodle Casserole is destined to become one of your favorite go-to dishes. Packed with tender egg noodles, rich ground beef, and a luscious creamy tomato sauce, this casserole brings together simple ingredients in an extraordinary way. Its melty mozzarella topping and hints of Italian seasoning make every bite a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this Beef Noodle Casserole will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your table with happy smiles.

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how such a simple list of ingredients can come together to create something so delicious. Each item plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures, from the tender egg noodles to the creamy cheeses and aromatic spices that enhance every mouthful.

12 ounce bag egg noodles: The foundation of the casserole offering a soft, chewy texture that holds the sauce perfectly.
2 Tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables, boosting flavor.
1 small onion, diced: Brings a mild sweetness and depth to the dish when sautéed.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh, slightly crisp bite along with vibrant color.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses wonderful aroma and savory complexity.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this casserole truly satisfying.
14 ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices): Provides juicy acidity and bright flavor.
1 cup tomato sauce: Creates the rich, saucy base that binds everything together.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the overall flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle smoky warmth, but you can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicious flavors.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a gentle hint of heat and brightness.
8 ounce block cream cheese, softened: Brings creamy indulgence and smooth texture.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and silky.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch for balanced taste.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish): Brightens the finished dish with herbal freshness.

How to Make Beef Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook your egg noodles just until they are tender but still have a little firmness. This ensures they won’t turn mushy after baking. Drain and set them aside so you’re ready to mix everything together.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Garlic

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic last, letting it cook just 30 seconds to keep that vibrant fresh flavor without burning.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to your skillet with the veggies. Break it apart gently and cook until no longer pink and nicely browned. This step builds a rich meat flavor that’s essential for a comforting Beef Noodle Casserole. Drain excess grease for a cleaner finish.

Step 4: Create the Tomato Sauce Base

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld and thicken slightly, creating a tasty sauce that hugs every noodle and piece of beef.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Dairy

Lower the heat and add softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, dreamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning here to make it perfectly balanced and flavorful before mixing with noodles.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

Fold your cooked noodles into the creamy beef sauce until every strand is coated in that luscious mixture. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Bake uncovered on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest a few minutes—it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Beef Noodle Casserole

Garnishes

Brighten your Beef Noodle Casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. These herbs add a fresh, vibrant contrast that cuts through the richness and makes the dish truly pop both visually and in taste.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance out the creamy flavors. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also make wonderful companions, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the beef noodle casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets, making it feel extra special for guests or family dinners. You can also top it with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for delightful crunch alongside the gooey cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your leftover Beef Noodle Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious meal to enjoy later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into airtight containers or freeze the whole dish before baking. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through completely.

Reheating

Reheat portions of Beef Noodle Casserole in the microwave until hot and bubbly, or warm up in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Either method preserves the creamy goodness and melty cheese that make this dish so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle for this casserole?

Absolutely! While egg noodles work wonderfully, you can substitute with wide pasta like pappardelle, penne, or even rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed so the noodles don’t get overcooked.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative to keep it hearty and satisfying. Use vegetable broth or tomato juice to maintain the rich sauce flavors.

Can I prepare this Beef Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready, simply bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes if it’s chilled through.

What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different creamy texture. Alternatively, stirring in sour cream after cooking can also add richness, though it won’t melt quite the same way.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Be careful not to overcook the noodles at first, and drain any excess liquid from the tomato products if they seem too juicy. Also, simmer the sauce until it thickens nicely before combining everything.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a classic Beef Noodle Casserole that blends nostalgia with simple, robust flavors. This recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level with its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked noodles, and that dreamy cheese topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for any night of the week but impressive enough for guests. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 18 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender egg noodles, ground beef, and a creamy tomato-based sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines savory flavors and creamy textures in an easy-to-make casserole baked to golden perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just tender according to package directions, ensuring they do not become too soft since they will finish cooking in the casserole. Drain and set aside.
Sauté vegetables and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Create the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir consistently until the cream cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked egg noodles to the sauce and toss well to coat all noodles evenly with the creamy tomato mixture. Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Bake the casserole: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the noodle mixture. Bake uncovered in the oven on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles with a lovely golden crust.
Serve: Remove casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired, then serve warm for a satisfying meal.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles during boiling as they will continue to cook in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.
If you prefer, substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or omit for a milder flavor.
Use either salted or unsalted butter based on your dietary preference; adjust added salt accordingly.
Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more nutrition.
This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: beef noodle casserole, creamy beef pasta bake, easy casserole recipe, ground beef egg noodles, comfort food casserole