When dinner needs to be simple but satisfying, Hearty Ground Beef Casserole always saves the day. With layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone loves.
The first time I made this casserole, I was looking for something that used pantry staples but still felt like a homemade meal. I browned some beef, tossed in noodles, and baked everything under a blanket of cheese. My family devoured it in minutes — and now, it’s in regular rotation right alongside my Loaded Cornbread Casserole and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
Hearty Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
- In a greased 9×13-inch dish, spread half the cooked noodles. Top with half the beef mixture, then half the creamy sauce. Repeat layers.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Add breadcrumbs if desired. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve with bread or salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Notes
• Try adding veggies like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Switch up the cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• Great for make-ahead meals or freezer prep.
• Pairs well with salad or crusty garlic bread.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Hearty Ground Beef Casserole
This casserole is a perfect mix of flavors and textures — the creamy sauce, the savory beef, the gooey cheese, and just enough noodles to make it cozy but not heavy. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and great for meal prep.
If you love baked comfort meals like my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole or Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, this recipe will fit perfectly into your dinner lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
For the Pasta Layer:
- 8 ounces egg noodles or elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
If you enjoy hearty, easy meals with bold flavor, try pairing this dish with my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw — it adds a bright, fresh balance.
How to Make Hearty Ground Beef Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch dish, spread half the cooked noodles. Top with half the beef mixture, then half the creamy sauce. Repeat layers.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top (and breadcrumbs if you like a crunchy finish). Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with crusty bread or a green salad for the perfect family dinner.
If you like old-school baked comfort, this one’s as timeless as my Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Casserole
- Use full-fat sour cream: It makes the sauce ultra creamy.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Slightly underdone is best — they’ll cook more in the oven.
- Mix up the cheese: Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Add veggies: Stir in peas, corn, or spinach for color and nutrition.
Small tricks like these are the same reason my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes always turn out perfectly rich and bubbly.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bake covered at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Just like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this dish gets even better the next day — the flavors deepen beautifully.
Flavor Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and pepper jack cheese.
- Italian Version: Use marinara sauce and mozzarella.
- Vegetable Casserole: Mix in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Creamy Deluxe: Stir in cream cheese for extra indulgence.
If you like flexible recipes, you’ll also love my Cajun Potato Soup — same comfort, endless variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, it’s a great lighter option — just add a little extra seasoning.
2. Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What kind of pasta works best?
Egg noodles or short pasta like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni hold up perfectly.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones.
The Final Bite
This Hearty Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of cozy, no-fuss comfort food. Every bite is loaded with creamy sauce, flavorful beef, and melted cheese — the kind of meal that makes everyone come back for seconds.
Serve it with my Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup for the ultimate family comfort dinner that’s warm, filling, and unforgettable.