When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a cheesy, hearty bake that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. With tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a blend of melting cheeses, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.

In this article, we will guide you through each step of making this delectable meal. From cooking the beef to baking the casserole to golden perfection, you’ll find everything you need to make this recipe a success.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake

Before you begin, gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole. It’s a straightforward recipe that uses common pantry ingredients but delivers on flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients List:

1 lb ground beef
12 oz egg noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)

With this combination of ingredients, you’ll be able to make a cheesy and satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Directions for Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before diving into the cooking process, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly, and the cheese melts to a gooey, golden perfection. While your oven is heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil to prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them thoroughly and set them aside. Be sure not to overcook the noodles, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven, and you don’t want them to become mushy. Set the cooked noodles aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and cook the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, it’s time to add the onions and garlic. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The aroma of the garlic and onion will start to fill your kitchen, creating a savory base for the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce into the beef mixture. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, and mix everything together. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, savory sauce that will coat the noodles perfectly when added later.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Beef Mixture

Once the tomato mixture has simmered and is full of flavor, add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. This step will help infuse the noodles with the rich, savory flavors of the beef mixture, ensuring each bite is full of deliciousness.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

After the noodles and beef mixture are well combined, transfer the entire mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it’s well distributed throughout the dish. The next step is the best part—adding all that cheese!

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and bubble in the oven, creating a creamy, cheesy topping that’s hard to resist. Feel free to add extra cheese if you’re a true cheese lover!

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Now, it’s time to bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The goal is for the cheese to be melted and bubbly and for the edges of the casserole to turn a delicious golden brown. During baking, the flavors continue to meld, and the cheese forms a beautiful, cheesy crust on top. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

After letting the casserole rest for a few minutes, it’s time to dish out generous portions of this cheesy, comforting meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate dinner experience. The Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake is perfect for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, offering both comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Nutritional Information

Now that you’ve enjoyed making and serving this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake, let’s take a look at the nutritional breakdown. Each serving of this dish contains approximately:

Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 30g

This hearty casserole provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying meal for everyone at the table. It’s a perfect option for those looking to indulge in comfort food without sacrificing flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

While this recipe is already packed with flavor, you can easily add more nutrition by incorporating vegetables into the mix. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture before assembling the bake. This will add more fiber and vitamins to the dish while maintaining its rich and savory taste.

Make It Spicy

If you like a little heat in your dishes, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. This will give the casserole an extra kick that complements the creamy cheese and savory beef. You can also top the casserole with some chopped jalapeños for an added burst of heat.

Swap the Meats

For a different twist, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will reduce the fat content of the dish while still keeping the flavor intact. Ground sausage is another great option that will infuse the casserole with a bit of extra spice and flavor.

FAQs About Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp garden salad, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also try it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrients.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini would work wonderfully in this casserole. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s both satisfying and delicious. With a rich tomato-based sauce, tender egg noodles, and a perfect blend of cheeses, this dish has everything you need for a hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

For more comforting and delicious recipes, check out these crowd favorites:

Enjoy this Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake for your next family dinner, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones! Happy cooking!

Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake – Comfort Food at Its Finest

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake is the ultimate comfort food! A hearty blend of seasoned beef, tender noodles, and melted cheese creates the perfect casserole for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and family-friendly, making it the ideal meal to satisfy hunger and cravings alike.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
12 oz egg noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
Cook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Bake: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the beef mixture and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Serve: Let the Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
For an extra cheesy bake, sprinkle some additional cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Cheesy Ground Beef Noodle Bake, Beef Noodle Casserole, Cheesy Casserole, Comfort Food, Ground Beef Recipes, Easy Dinner Ideas