Old-Fashioned Ground Beef Casserole with Egg Noodles: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

5. Assemble the Casserole

Now the fun part—layering!

• Start with half the noodles on the bottom of your casserole dish.
• Spread half the creamy mixture over the noodles.
• Add half the beef and tomato sauce, smoothing it evenly.
• Repeat the layers with the rest of the noodles, creamy mixture, and beef sauce.

Top it all off with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably sprinkle on a little extra.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until it’s bubbling at the edges and the cheese on top is melted and golden.

The smell alone will have your neighbors knocking.

7. Cool Slightly, Then Serve Warm

Give your casserole just a few minutes to rest before serving—it helps everything settle and slice beautifully.

Serve it warm, maybe with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Or just scoop it onto a plate and savor the creamy, beefy, cheesy goodness.

Tips & Variations

• Want more veggies? Add chopped bell peppers or frozen peas to the meat sauce.
• Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe and use two casserole dishes.
• Low on beef? Stretch it with cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms.
• Spice it up? Add a dash of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.
• Make it ahead: Assemble it in the morning and refrigerate until ready to bake.

The Heart of a Homestyle Meal

There’s a reason this kind of meal endures across generations.

It’s easy, yes—but it’s also rich with meaning. A dish like this doesn’t just fill your belly. It fills your kitchen with warmth. It reminds us of the power of a simple meal, made with care.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a partner, or a bustling table full of grandkids, this creamy ground beef casserole is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Because some dinners don’t need reinvention—they just need love.