There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling casserole straight from the oven, especially when it’s packed with layers of savory meat, tender noodles, and melty cheese. That’s exactly what you get with Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner—an easy-to-make, family-favorite recipe that’s as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for leisurely Sunday suppers. Creamy, hearty, and brimming with nostalgic flavor, this dish combines classic ingredients in a way that makes every bite taste like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, honest ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding creaminess, a pop of color, or a depth of savory satisfaction. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to bring Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner to life:
- Ground Beef: Use a pound of lean ground beef for hearty flavor and richness that holds the casserole together.
- Yellow Onion: Diced for sweetness and texture that melds perfectly into the filling.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic deepens the savory notes—don’t skip this aromatic touch.
- Salt: Just a teaspoon brings out all the flavors in the casserole without overpowering the dish.
- Black Pepper: Adds a mild peppery kick; freshly ground is best.
- Paprika: A subtle smoky warmth that livens up the beef.
- Dried Oregano: Just a quarter teaspoon gives a gentle, earthy aroma.
- Egg Noodles: These wide, curly noodles soak up the sauce while adding their own tender, chewy bite.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Brings instant creaminess and savory depth—don’t worry, the flavor is subtle!
- Sour Cream: Half a cup adds tang and ensures ultimate creaminess in each forkful.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts into a golden, irresistible crust topping.
- Milk: Just a splash helps loosen the sauce so it bakes up creamy but never dry.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the aromatics and keeping everything beautifully tender.
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, but a sprinkle at the end brightens the casserole and adds a fresh finish.
How to Make Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by boiling your egg noodles in a large pot of salted water until they’re just al dente—not too soft, since they’ll cook more in the oven! Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside, so they’re ready to soak up all that creamy, savory sauce later on.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a big skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the diced onion, sautéing until it’s golden and fragrant, about three minutes. Toss in the minced garlic for the last thirty seconds (the aroma will have everyone wandering into the kitchen!), then get ready to build even more flavor.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to your skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Sauté until it’s browned and no longer pink, taking the time to really get that flavorful caramelization on the meat. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano—the spices awaken everything and make the whole house smell inviting.
Step 4: Mix in Sauces and Dairy
Turn the heat down low, then stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. The kitchen will smell incredible as ingredients come together into a creamy, savory sauce. Make sure everything is fully combined, coating the beef and onions in luscious flavor.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Assemble
Gently fold your drained egg noodles into the skillet, mixing until every noodle is luxuriously coated in sauce and beef. Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly for a perfect bake.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top—this becomes the crown jewel of your Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner! Slide the dish into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.
Step 7: Let Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about five minutes so it’s easier to serve and everything sets up beautifully. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if using, for that classic homestyle look and a pop of green freshness.
How to Serve Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner
Garnishes
Nothing brightens up a casserole slice quite like a scatter of fresh herbs. Parsley is a classic go-to, lending a pop of color and a gentle herbal finish to every serving. For something a little different, try thinly sliced green onion or a dusting of smoked paprika on top—the result is as gorgeous as it is flavorful.
Side Dishes
This Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner shines as the main event but loves a supporting cast. Pair each helping with a crisp, fresh green salad or simple steamed green beans to balance the creamy richness. Buttered rolls, roasted broccoli, or even a tangy coleslaw make for perfect partners around the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Give this casserole a special twist when serving guests by presenting individual portions in oven-safe ramekins—they look adorable and feel personal. You can also add a scoop of extra sautéed veggies or a generous sprinkle of crunchy fried onions for added texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with family-style serving straight from the pan—everyone loves seconds when the dish looks this inviting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, retaining its creamy texture and wonderful flavors. The noodles soak up more flavor overnight, making leftovers an absolute treat!
Freezing
You can freeze the baked casserole for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely, slice into portions, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For best results, place the wrapped portions in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a stress-free dinner later on.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat slices in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). If you’re short on time, microwaving works, too—just use a microwave-safe plate and cover the casserole with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. A fresh sprinkle of cheese and parsley can help revive just-baked vibes.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work wonderfully as substitutes if you’d like a lighter version. Just be sure to season generously, since these leaner meats benefit from a flavorful boost.
What other vegetables can I add?
If you want to increase the nutritional value or stretch the casserole, try adding thawed frozen peas, corn, diced bell peppers, or mixed vegetables. They blend seamlessly into the cheesy, creamy goodness without overpowering the classic taste.
Can I make Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from chilled.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken soup is a great alternative for those who aren’t fans of mushrooms. Alternatively, you can make your own white sauce from butter, flour, milk, and broth for a homemade touch.
How do I make this casserole gluten free?
Swap the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta variety and use a gluten-free condensed soup. Double-check other ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this comfort classic.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels as comforting as it tastes and never fails to bring people together, give this Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner a spot at your table. It’s creamy, hearty, and endlessly customizable—a true family night hero. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a most-requested favorite in your home, too!
Print
Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Dinner is a comforting and hearty meal that the whole family will love. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Casserole:
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Noodles: Cook egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook.
- Cook Beef: Add ground beef, season, and cook until browned.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in soup, sour cream, and milk. Add noodles and mix.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Serve: Let rest before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute.
- Add frozen peas or mixed vegetables for added nutrition.
- Option to use cream of chicken soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
