Beef Noodle Cheddar Bake

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This dish brings together browned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and gooey cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a creamy blend of sour cream and condensed mushroom soup. A hint of onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce enhance the beef while tomato sauce adds subtle richness. After everything is tossed and layered in a baking dish, another sprinkle of cheese tops it off for a bubbly, golden finish in the oven. The result is a warm, satisfying family dinner, perfect for sharing around the table and easy enough to prepare on a busy night.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sun, 03 Aug 2025 13:36:22 GMT
A beef noodle casserole in a white dish. Save
A beef noodle casserole in a white dish. | lilicooks.com

This beef noodle casserole is serious comfort food made simple layering a creamy beef and noodle mixture with lots of melty cheddar. It is my go to dinner for chilly evenings when everyone comes home hungry and I want something guaranteed to be a hit

My family first tried this when I needed a filling dinner for my teenage sons and their friends and now it is the casserole they ask for whenever they smell onions and beef sizzling

Ingredients

  • Egg noodles: bring a tender bite and soak up all the creamy sauce Choose the broad kind for best texture
  • Ground beef: gives savory heartiness Be sure to pick a fresh pound with good color
  • Onion: adds sweetness and builds flavor Always select a firm onion with no green shoots
  • Garlic: boosts the base flavor and rounds out the richness Use fresh cloves for the best aroma
  • Condensed cream of mushroom soup: adds creamy body and umami look for a brand with plenty of mushroom bits
  • Sour cream: gives tang and keeps the whole casserole luscious Choose full fat for creaminess
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: brings melty sharp richness A blend of medium and sharp cheddar is my favorite
  • Tomato sauce: adds brightness and ties all the flavors together Opt for a simple unsalted sauce
  • Worcestershire sauce: adds just the right savory depth
  • Dried thyme: gives a warm herby note that balances the dish
  • Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning taste as you go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish This ensures the casserole will not stick and makes cleanup easy
Boil and Drain Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles per package directions aim for al dente so they keep their shape after baking Drain well and set aside
Brown the Beef and Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat brown the ground beef Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks until no pink remains Add chopped onion and minced garlic Cook another four minutes until the onion turns translucent and smells sweet Pour off any fat that collects
Mix the Creamy Sauce:
Return skillet to the heat Stir in cream of mushroom soup sour cream one cup shredded cheddar tomato sauce Worcestershire thyme salt and black pepper Stir well until it becomes a creamy unified mixture and the cheese is mostly melted
Coat Noodles with Sauce:
Pour the cooked egg noodles into the skillet Use a big spoon to gently fold the noodles into the beef mixture making sure every noodle is coated
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish Spread it evenly with your spatula Top with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese for a golden cheesy crust
Bake Until Golden and Bubbling:
Place in the oven and bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes until heated throughout and the cheese on top melts and begins to turn golden
Serve and Savor:
Scoop into generous helpings and enjoy while hot
A beef noodle casserole in a white dish. Save
A beef noodle casserole in a white dish. | lilicooks.com

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely before covering leftovers tightly Cover with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to three days You can also freeze in portions for quick weeknight dinners Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

No egg noodles Use rotini fusilli or penne in a pinch For a lighter version try ground turkey or chicken and use low fat dairy instead of full fat cheddar and sour cream Switch out tomato sauce for crushed tomatoes or even salsa for extra zing

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines with a simple green salad on the side or some steamed broccoli A little extra sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh chives make plates look special My kids love it with buttered green beans

A beef noodle casserole with a wooden spoon in it. Save
A beef noodle casserole with a wooden spoon in it. | lilicooks.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Classic beef noodle casseroles like this became popular in American kitchens in the mid twentieth century especially for their convenience and economical use of pantry staples Every family puts their own spin on it mine passed down a love of sharp cheddar and a good dash of Worcestershire for that signature flavor

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute other noodles for egg noodles?

Yes, rotini, penne, or wide ribbon noodles work well, though egg noodles add a traditional tender texture.

→ Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely. Try stirring in cooked peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ What cheese can replace cheddar?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a shredded cheese blend will melt nicely and offer a different taste.

→ How can I make this ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake when ready, allowing extra time if chilled.

→ Can the casserole be frozen?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake until heated through.

→ Why use cream of mushroom soup?

It brings a velvety, savory element that coats the noodles and beef, enhancing richness and melding flavors.

Beef Noodle Cheddar Bake

Ground beef, egg noodles, cheddar, and creamy mushroom sauce combine for a hearty comfort meal.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
30 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 8 ounces egg noodles
02 1 pound ground beef
03 1 small onion, chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 ounces)
06 1 cup sour cream
07 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
08 1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
09 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
10 1 teaspoon dried thyme
11 ½ teaspoon salt
12 ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish; set aside.

Step 02

Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 03

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 04

Return the skillet to the heat and add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined and the cheese has melted. Remove from heat.

Step 05

Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and mix them with the beef mixture until well coated.

Step 06

Transfer the beef and noodle mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 07

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Step 08

Serve and enjoy!

Required Tools

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Colander

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup)
  • Contains gluten (egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~