Ground Beef Casserole – The Cozy, Cheesy Weeknight Dinner Everyone Loves

 


How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.

Stir in:

  • Garlic salt

  • Salt

  • White sugar

  • Tomato sauce

Simmer for about 20 minutes so the flavors deepen and meld together. Remove from heat and cover.

The aroma at this stage? Savory and rich — already irresistible.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente.

Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine:

  • Diced onion

  • Sour cream

  • Cream cheese

Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer gives the casserole its signature richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Layer as follows:

  1. Half of the noodles

  2. Half of the sour cream mixture

  3. Half of the beef mixture

Repeat layers.

Sprinkle generously with shredded Cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so everything sets up beautifully.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Casserole

Because this dish is hearty and rich, I love pairing it with something fresh:

  • Simple green salad with vinaigrette

  • Steamed green beans

  • Roasted broccoli

  • Garlic bread

It’s also wonderful on its own for a simple, no-fuss dinner.

Tips for the Best Casserole

  • Don’t overcook the noodles — they’ll continue baking in the oven

  • Simmer the beef long enough for deeper flavor

  • Let the casserole rest before slicing

  • Add extra cheese if you love a thick, bubbly top

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days

  • Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months

  • Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through

Add a splash of water or tomato sauce when reheating to keep it moist.

General Information

  • Servings: 6–8

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: About 1 hour

  • Cuisine: Classic American comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it before baking?

Absolutely. Wrap well and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Why is there sugar in the recipe?

The sugar balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and enhances overall flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — use two 9×13 dishes or one larger baking dish if available.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole is everything comfort food should be — simple, hearty, creamy, and topped with bubbling cheese. It’s the kind of dinner that feels nostalgic and dependable, the kind you can make without overthinking.

If you love cozy beef dinners, you might also enjoy:

  • 5-Ingredient Sheet Pan Meatloaf

  • Cheeseburger French Fry Bake

  • Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole

Simple ingredients. Big comfort. And always worth making again.

Let’s Connect 💛

If you make this casserole:

  • Leave a review below

  • Share your photos on Pinterest

  • Tell me what add-ins you used!

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Saturated Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 890mg

(Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients used.)