This Ground Beef Casserole is a classic, no-fuss recipe that brings together savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a satisfying, homestyle meal that’s easy to assemble and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the 1 tsp garlic salt, 1 tsp salt, and 2 cans tomato sauce. Mix until well combined. Add the 1 tsp white sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and cover it to keep warm.
- Cook Noodles: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a boil. Cook the 1 package of egg noodles until they are al dente (firm to the bite) according to package directions. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Create Creamy Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the 1 diced large white onion, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 package (3 oz.) cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer half of the cooked egg noodles in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Top this with half of the sour cream mixture, spreading it out evenly. Follow with half of the beef and tomato sauce mixture, spreading it over the creamy layer. Repeat these layers: add the remaining noodles, then the rest of the sour cream mixture, and finally the remaining beef mixture. Sprinkle the top generously with ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or more, to your liking).
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve warm. Enjoy!
