Casseroles & Bakes

Beef and Noodle Bake

Name: Beef and Noodle Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup (250ml) beef broth; 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano; 1 tsp (5g) paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 8 oz (225g) egg noodles; 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (60g) sour cream; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley

By Sam Carter · June 16, 2026 · Casseroles & Bakes

Prep20 min

Cook35 min

Total55 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I made a Beef and Noodle Bake for my family - it was a chilly winter evening, and everyone was craving something warm and comforting. As the aroma of ground beef and melted cheese filled the kitchen, I knew I had a winner. This recipe has since become a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share it with you.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few common ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. I've perfected the recipe over the years, and I'm confident that you'll love it just as much as we do.

What makes this Beef and Noodle Bake special is the combination of flavors and textures. The ground beef is browned to perfection, giving it a rich, meaty flavor that's balanced by the sweetness of the onions and the tanginess of the canned tomatoes. The egg noodles add a delightful creaminess, while the melted cheese brings everything together.

I typically make this dish on weeknights when I need a quick and easy meal that's sure to please. It's also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, as it serves a crowd and can be made ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The dish is extremely versatile and can be customized to suit your family's tastes, with options to add or substitute different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings.
The Beef and Noodle Bake is a budget-friendly option that's perfect for large families or groups, as it serves a crowd and can be made with affordable ingredients.
The recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use, making it a great option for meal prep or planning.
The dish is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a staple in your household, with its comforting flavors and satisfying texture.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Beef and Noodle Bake is in the layering of flavors. By browning the ground beef properly, you create a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish. The onions and garlic are then sautéed until they're soft and fragrant, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile. The canned tomatoes add a burst of acidity, while the beef broth provides moisture and a hint of umami.

The egg noodles are cooked al dente, giving them a nice texture that holds up to the creamy sauce. The sauce itself is a combination of sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes, which provides a tangy and creamy element to the dish.

The final layer of flavor comes from the melted cheese on top, which adds a golden-brown crust and a rich, velvety texture. By combining all these elements, you create a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts - a true comfort food classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great Beef and Noodle Bake, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. Look for high-quality ground beef with a good fat ratio, as this will help to create a rich and flavorful dish. You'll also want to use a combination of pantry staples, such as onions, garlic, and canned tomatoes, to add depth and complexity to the recipe.

1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20The 80/20 ratio of lean to fat is important, as it provides enough moisture and flavor to the dish without making it too greasy. You can also use 70/30 or 85/15, but 80/20 is the ideal ratio.
1 medium onion, dicedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also caramelize the onions for added depth, but this is optional.
3 cloves of garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it provides a pungent flavor that complements the beef and onions. You can also use garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh is best.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoesLook for a high-quality canned tomato that's low in sodium and has no added sugar. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but canned is more convenient and provides a consistent flavor.
1 cup (250ml) beef brothUse a low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content of the dish. You can also make your own broth from scratch, but store-bought is a convenient option.
1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoDried oregano provides a earthy, herbal flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes. You can also use fresh oregano, but dried is more convenient and has a longer shelf life.
1 tsp (5g) paprikaPaprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltUse a high-quality salt, such as kosher or sea salt, to add depth and complexity to the dish. You can also adjust the amount of salt to taste.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is essential for this recipe, as it provides a sharp, peppery flavor that complements the beef and onions.
8 oz (225g) egg noodlesUse a high-quality egg noodle that's made with fresh eggs and has a good texture. You can also use other types of noodles, such as penne or rotini, but egg noodles are traditional.
1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheeseUse a high-quality cheddar cheese that's sharp and flavorful. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, but cheddar is traditional.
1/2 cup (60g) sour creamSour cream adds a tangy, creamy element to the dish. You can also use Greek yogurt or creme fraiche as a substitute, but sour cream is best.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. You can also use dried parsley, but fresh is best.

How to Make Beef and Noodle Bake

1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they're al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Remove the browned beef from the skillet and set it aside. Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet, then add the diced onion and cook until it's softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
5
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's thickened and the flavors have melded together.
6
In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, browned beef, and sauce. Stir until everything is well combined, then transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7
In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the noodle mixture, then sprinkle with chopped parsley.
8
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Expert Tips

To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, cook them until they're al dente, then drain and set them aside.
Use a high-quality ground beef with a good fat ratio to ensure that the dish is flavorful and moist.
Don't overcook the sauce, as it can become too thick and dry. Instead, simmer it for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
Use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, for a rich and creamy sauce.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the noodles, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
Not browning the ground beef properly, which can result in a lack of flavor and texture.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as canned tomatoes with added sugar or low-fat ground beef, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not simmering the sauce long enough, which can result in a thin and watery sauce.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can cause the cheese to be runny and the flavors to be unbalanced.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced ham or bacon to the sauce for a smoky, savory flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique and tangy flavor.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the sauce for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Use gluten-free noodles or a gluten-free flour to make the dish gluten-free.
Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
Use a different type of protein, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner and healthier option.

What to Serve With Beef and Noodle Bake

This Beef and Noodle Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for serving with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a well-rounded meal.

For a comforting and indulgent meal, serve the Beef and Noodle Bake with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying snack.

Garlic breadGreen saladSteamed vegetablesMashed potatoesRoasted vegetables

Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Beef and Noodle Bake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, let the dish cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge, then bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheese to become runny and the noodles to become mushy.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the sauce and cook the noodles, then assemble the dish and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it allows you to prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you're ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Ground turkey or chicken can be leaner than ground beef, so you may need to adjust the amount of oil or broth used in the recipe.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as some vegetables can release a lot of moisture during cooking.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles and being careful with the ingredients used in the sauce. Be sure to check the labels of the canned tomatoes and beef broth to ensure that they are gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge, then bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and cook the noodles, then assemble the dish and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it allows you to prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it when you're ready.

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

The best type of cheese for this recipe is a sharp cheddar or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella. You can also use other types of cheese, such as parmesan or feta, but cheddar is traditional and provides a rich and creamy flavor.

Can I use low-fat ground beef?

Yes, you can use low-fat ground beef, but keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Low-fat ground beef can be leaner and less flavorful than regular ground beef, so you may need to adjust the amount of oil or broth used in the recipe.

The Full Recipe

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