Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole – A Timeless Family Favorite

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Nothing brings back warm, comforting memories like a homemade casserole straight from Grandma’s kitchen. This Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that has been passed down through generations. Made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a creamy sour cream mixture, this dish is rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and delivers a meal the whole family will love. The melted cheddar cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite a delicious combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep.
Family-Friendly – A dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later.
Comfort Food Classic – A nostalgic recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 2 cans (15 oz. each) tomato sauce
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1 package (8 oz.) egg noodles
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 package (3 oz.) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or more, to taste)
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Make the Beef and Tomato Sauce Mixture

  1. Stir in the garlic salt, salt, and tomato sauce.
  2. Mix well and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
  3. Once done, remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (tender but firm).
  3. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Casserole Dish

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sour Cream Mixture

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced onion, sour cream, and cream cheese.
  2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  2. Layer with half of the sour cream mixture, followed by half of the beef mixture.
  3. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef mixture.

Step 7: Add the Cheesy Topping

  1. Generously sprinkle shredded sharp Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  2. If you love extra cheese, feel free to add more.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:

Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Steamed Vegetables – A healthy and colorful addition to your meal.
Green Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Casserole

Use Lean Ground Beef – To reduce excess grease and keep the dish flavorful but not oily.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Cooking them al dente prevents them from becoming mushy after baking.
Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld.
Customize with Extra Ingredients – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a veggie boost.

Variations & Add-Ins

Make It Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Try a Different Cheese – Swap sharp Cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack.
Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free noodles instead of egg noodles.
Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle the top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply place it in the oven and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Absolutely! Follow these steps to freeze:

  1. Assemble the casserole as instructed, but do not bake.
  2. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  3. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this casserole stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

This Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, delivering rich, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a timeless favorite that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of old-fashioned home cooking to your kitchen. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with love—just like Grandma used to make.

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