Looking for a warm, cheesy meal that will make your whole family smile? Baked Beef & Noodles is the perfect choice! This comforting casserole combines tender ground beef, savory marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, all topped with a generous layer of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is everything you need for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and sure to please!
Why This Baked Beef & Noodles Is a Must-Try
Perfect for Busy Weeknights: This recipe is quick and easy, making it a great choice when you need a hearty meal with minimal effort.
Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses gives it that irresistible cheesy topping everyone loves.
Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors like beef, pasta, and cheese, this casserole is loved by both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and bake it later, making it an ideal dish for meal prepping or dinner parties.
Comforting and Hearty: Whether you’re craving a filling dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this casserole has got you covered.
Ingredients for Baked Beef & Noodles
Main Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
The ground beef gives the dish its meaty, savory flavor and texture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
12 oz egg noodles
These noodles are soft and sturdy, absorbing the sauce and staying perfectly tender even after baking.
2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
Choose marinara for a richer, herbaceous flavor or tomato sauce for a simpler base. Both work wonderfully in this dish.
1 cup sour cream
Sour cream adds a creamy, tangy richness to the casserole, making the dish smoother and more indulgent.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltability, forming a gooey, cheesy topping that’s hard to resist.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan provides a salty, nutty kick that enhances the overall flavor of the casserole and complements the mozzarella.
Flavor-Boosting Ingredients
1 medium onion, diced
Onion adds sweetness and savory depth to the beef mixture.
2 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic enhances the savory flavors, infusing the beef with a delicious aroma.
1 tbsp olive oil
Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, helping to bring out their natural sweetness and flavors.
1 tsp Italian seasoning
This blend of herbs (like oregano, basil, and thyme) infuses the casserole with Italian-inspired flavors, enhancing the marinara sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste
Essential for seasoning, these will help balance the flavors in the dish.
Optional Garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a light, fresh flavor to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Beef & Noodles
1. Preheat the Oven
