Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

This cheesy beef and noodle casserole with crispy French onions is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. It combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich creamy sauce topped with sharp cheddar cheese and crunchy onions for an irresistible meal that always pleases a crowd.

I originally made this on a busy weeknight when I had very little time but plenty of hungry mouths. It’s become a staple ever since because everyone loves the combination of creamy and crunchy flavors.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: one pound provides the hearty protein base, choose lean or regular depending on preference
• Egg noodles: eight ounces bring a soft, tender bite that holds the sauce well look for fresh or dried quality pasta
• Cream of mushroom soup: one can adds creamy umami richness that binds the dish together use your favorite brand
• Sour cream: one cup gives tangy creaminess and silky texture full fat works best
• Shredded cheddar cheese: two cups contributes sharp flavor and gooey melt try sharp or extra sharp for more punch
• Crispy French onions: one and a half cups give a crunchy golden topping that contrasts the creaminess beautifully
• Onion powder: half teaspoon and garlic powder half teaspoon boost savory notes fresh seasonings can work but powdered is easier to blend in evenly
• Salt and pepper: to taste balance and enhance overall flavor
• Frozen peas, diced bell pepper or mushrooms: optional add-ins for freshness and extra nutrition choose fresh, vibrant veggies

Instructions

Sauté the beef:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat cook one pound of ground beef until browned and cooked through about seven to ten minutes. Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.

Season the beef:

Sprinkle half a teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so the spices evenly coat the meat and boost flavor.

Cook the noodles:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add eight ounces of egg noodles and cook until just shy of tender about one minute less than package instructions. Drain the noodles well and set aside.

Mix the casserole filling:

In a spacious bowl combine the cooked beef, cooked noodles, one can of cream of mushroom soup, one cup of sour cream, and one cup shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until creamy and well incorporated.

Assemble the casserole:

Spray or grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. Spread the beef and noodle mixture evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that cheesy crust.

Bake the casserole:

Place the dish in the oven preheated to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius. Bake for about twenty minutes until bubbly and hot throughout.

Add the crispy French onion topping:

Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle one and a half cups of crispy French onions evenly over the surface. Return to the oven for another five to seven minutes or until the onions turn beautiful golden brown.

Rest and serve:

Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for five minutes. This step helps the dish to set up so it slices nicely and the flavors settle.

One winter evening when my kids were feeling under the weather, this casserole warmed us all up and brought smiles to the table despite the gray day.

Storage Tips

Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through. Leftovers also freeze beautifully; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Try using cream of celery or cream of chicken soup in place of mushroom for a different flavor profile. For dairy-free choices, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs nicely with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables such as carrots or broccoli make great side dishes. For extra indulgence try serving with crusty bread for sopping up any creamy sauce left on your plate.

This casserole is a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and ease to busy weeknights.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of noodles works best?

Egg noodles are ideal due to their wide shape and texture, allowing them to absorb flavors while retaining a tender bite.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms can be mixed in for added flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I get the crispy topping?

After baking the casserole, sprinkle crispy French onions on top and return to the oven until they turn golden and crunchy.

→ What seasonings enhance the flavor?

Onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper work well to bring out the savory taste of the beef and cheese blend.

→ Is it necessary to drain the cooked beef?

Yes, draining excess fat prevents greasiness and keeps the casserole rich but balanced.