Ah, the good old Beef Noodle Casserole! This dish takes me straight back to my childhood, where the smell of beef simmering and noodles cooking filled the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home. Whenever I whipped this up during family gatherings, it felt like wrapping my loved ones in a warm, hearty hug. This casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also simple enough to make on busy weeknights, and believe me, your family will be asking for seconds!
What I adore most about this recipe is its flexibility. You can throw in whatever veggies you have in the fridge or adjust the seasonings to your family’s taste. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some nutrition amidst all those comforting flavors!
What’s in Easy Family-Friendly Beef Noodle Casserole?
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole. I usually opt for lean ground beef (like 80% lean) to keep things healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Egg Noodles: The classic choice for this dish! I love the chewy texture of egg noodles – and they soak up all the deliciousness of the sauce.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth. A yellow onion works perfectly, but if you have sweet or red onions on hand, those are delightful too!
Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that really makes the dish pop.
Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a true lifesaver in the kitchen! It gives the casserole its comforting creaminess. If you want to make it from scratch, a mixture of sour cream and broth also works!
Beef Broth: To add richness and depth to the casserole. I prefer low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness.
Cheddar Cheese: The crowning glory! Nothing beats a gooey layer of melted cheddar on top. I typically use sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: This is where you can get sneaky! I love tossing in some frozen peas and carrots for added nutrition and color. Plus, it saves time on prep!
Is Easy Family-Friendly Beef Noodle Casserole Good for You?
Let’s talk about the healthy side of this dish. While it’s definitely comfort food, there are a few benefits to consider:
Ground Beef: A great source of protein and iron, essential for energy and muscle function. Just be mindful of the fat content; leaner cuts are always a better choice.
Egg Noodles: They can provide carbohydrates for energy, but remember to balance them out with veggies to make the meal more nutritious.
Mixed Vegetables: Loading your casserole up with colorful veggies gives you vitamins and minerals while adding fiber to the meal, which is fantastic for digestion.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it – this casserole isn’t exactly low-calorie. But in moderation, paired with a fresh salad or steamed veggies, it can absolutely fit into a balanced diet. Plus, the family bonding time spent around the dinner table? Priceless!
Easy Family-Friendly Beef Noodle Casserole Ingredients
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 12 oz egg noodles
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves about 6 hungry people*
How to Make Easy Family-Friendly Beef Noodle Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation of that cheesy goodness baking is the best!
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat.
3. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. To the beef mixture, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Mix well until everything is combined.
6. Toss in the drained noodles and half of the shredded cheese, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help everything set and make for easier serving.
Suggestions for Perfecting Your Beef Noodle Casserole
– **Vegetable Variability:** Feel free to swap out or add veggies based on what your family loves or what you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach are all great options!
– **Cheese Lovers Unite:** If you’re a cheese aficionado like me, try mixing in mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
– **Make it Your Own:** Spice things up with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or toss in some herbs like Italian seasoning or parsley for added flavor.
– **Leftover Love:** This casserole makes for great leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven.
I can’t wait for you to try this Easy Family-Friendly Beef Noodle Casserole! It’s sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied bellies. Once you make it, let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share any of your own twists. Happy cooking!