Homestyle Beef and Cheddar Egg Noodle Bake Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a comforting, cheesy beef and egg noodle bake to warm you up on a chilly evening. This homestyle recipe combines tender ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and hearty egg noodles in a creamy, savory sauce—all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Egg noodle bakes have been a staple in American home cooking for decades, offering a budget-friendly way to stretch ingredients while delivering big flavor. This version adds a boost of protein from lean beef and calcium-rich cheddar, making it a balanced meal. Plus, it’s customizable—swap in turkey, veggies, or gluten-free noodles if needed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-dish wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Meal-prep friendly: Reheats beautifully for lunches.
- Kid-approved: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein.
Homestyle Beef and Cheddar Egg Noodle Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles (or sub gluten-free noodles)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 for less grease)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or celery for variation)
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for tang)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook noodles: Boil egg noodles al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, sauté for 3 minutes, then add garlic and beef. Cook until beef is no longer pink (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Make the sauce: In a large bowl, mix soup, sour cream, milk, 1 cup cheddar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in cooked noodles and beef mixture.
- Bake: Transfer to the baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Rest & serve: Let cool 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Time & Servings
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 480 | 42g | 28g | 22g |
Tips for the Best Noodle Bake
- Don’t overcook noodles: They’ll soften more in the oven.
- Drain beef well: Excess grease can make the bake soggy.
- Add veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheese lovers: Mix in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for depth.
FAQ
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
What’s a lighter alternative to sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt works well—it adds protein and tang with fewer calories.
Can I use a different protein?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles are great swaps.
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