The Coziest Hamburger Noodle Casserole Recipe For Chilly Nights

Hamburger noodle casserole brings comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Hearty ingredients combine in a delightful symphony of flavors that remind you of childhood meals.

Melted cheese blankets tender noodles and seasoned ground beef, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Simple pantry staples make this dish accessible for busy weeknights when hunger strikes and time is short.

Layers of rich, savory goodness promise a satisfying meal that everyone around the table will devour.

Quick to assemble and even faster to disappear, this casserole becomes an instant favorite with its classic, nostalgic appeal.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those nights when only something truly comforting will do.

What Stands Out in Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Adapt the recipe by swapping ground beef for turkey, adding vegetables, or using different cheese varieties to match your family's taste preferences.
• Kids and adults will love this crowd-pleasing casserole that combines familiar flavors of noodles, beef, and cheesy goodness in one simple, satisfying dish.
• Enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners.

Ingredients for Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides the main protein for the casserole.

• Egg Noodles: A classic pasta that creates a comforting and soft foundation for the dish.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup, Sour Cream: Create a rich and creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and melty topping that provides extra flavor and texture.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a deep and savory flavor base for the meat mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Offers a tangy and umami depth to the beef.
• Dried Basil: Brings a subtle herbal note to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.

• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy and golden texture to the casserole top.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright and fresh visual accent to the finished dish.

How to Prepare Hamburger Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Boil Noodles to Perfection

Grab a large pot and fill it with water.

Sprinkle in some salt and bring to a rolling boil.

Toss in egg noodles and cook until they’re tender but still have a slight bite.

Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Sizzle Ground Beef and Onions

Heat a skillet over medium flame.

• Ground beef
• Chopped onions

Cook until the beef turns a rich brown and onions become soft and translucent.

Pour off any extra grease.

Step 3: Amp Up the Flavor

Sprinkle minced garlic into the skillet and let it dance for a minute.

Splash in Worcestershire sauce, shake in dried basil, and season with salt and pepper.

Stir everything together so the flavors mingle.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce Magic

• Cream of mushroom soup
• Sour cream

Fold in the cooked noodles, then gently mix in the beef and onion mixture until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Prepare for Oven Magic

Crank up the oven to 350F.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Pour in the noodle and beef mixture, spreading it evenly.

Shower the top with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs if you’re feeling extra.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Deliciousness

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to melt into a bubbly golden blanket.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes.

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color.

Dig in and savor the comfort!

Cooking Tips for Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Shake the colander vigorously to remove excess water, preventing a watery casserole that could make the dish soggy.
• Add a splash of red wine or beef broth while browning the meat to boost the rich, savory taste and create deeper complexity.
• Grate the cheese fresh for better melting and more even coverage, avoiding pre-shredded cheese which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a little butter before sprinkling on top to create a golden, crispy, and more flavorful crunchy topping.
• Assemble the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld and making meal prep easier.

Saving and Reheating Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the casserole completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Stop when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, removing foil during the last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy texture.

Good Matches for Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Complement the hearty beef and rich cheese with a robust cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel that matches the casserole's deep, savory flavors.
• Serve with Crisp Green Salad: Balance the heavy, creamy casserole with a light, tangy mixed green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Add Roasted Vegetable Side: Enhance the meal with herb-seasoned roasted broccoli or glazed carrots to introduce fresh, vibrant vegetables that contrast the casserole's comfort-food texture.
• Enjoy with Craft Beer: Select a malty amber ale or hoppy IPA that can stand up to the beef's robust taste and complement the cheesy, creamy sauce.

Twist Ideas for Hamburger Noodle Casserole

• Gluten-Free Comfort Casserole: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice. Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and verify breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Beef Bake: Swap noodles with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. Substitute cream of mushroom soup with heavy cream and cream cheese for richer texture.
• Vegetarian Noodle Casserole: Replace ground beef with crumbled plant-based meat or lentils. Use vegetable broth and mushroom soup for additional depth of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt. Use dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for topping. Select dairy-free cream of mushroom soup for creamy consistency.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients that make this casserole delicious?

The ground beef, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese create a rich and comforting flavor profile that blends perfectly together.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken are great alternatives to beef and will work well in this recipe while keeping the same hearty texture.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy noodles and mild seasonings make this casserole a hit with children, and it’s an easy way to get them to eat a complete meal with protein and carbs.

• How can I make this dish a bit healthier?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat sour cream, reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup, and add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

Comforting Hamburger Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy hamburger noodle casserole blends hearty midwest comfort with simple home-style cooking. Home cooks can savor this classic one-dish meal that delivers pure satisfaction in every cheesy, meaty bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (453 grams) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Starch and Noodles:

• 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces/298 grams) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare water in a large pot with salt, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge egg noodles and cook until perfectly tender, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully drain and reserve.
2. Heat a skillet over medium temperature. Introduce ground beef and chopped onions, sautéing until meat transforms to rich brown and onions become translucent. Eliminate excess grease thoroughly.
3. Infuse aromatic garlic into the meat mixture, allowing it to release its robust flavors for about 60 seconds. Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the taste profile.
4. Whisk cream of mushroom soup and sour cream in a spacious mixing bowl until achieving a velvety consistency. Gently fold cooked noodles into the creamy blend, then integrate the seasoned beef and onion combination.
5. Activate oven to 350°F. Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking vessel with cooking spray. Transfer the noodle and meat ensemble, spreading evenly across the dish’s surface. Lavishly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs on top.
6. Position casserole in preheated oven. Bake for 22-27 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
7. Allow casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from oven. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for vibrant presentation before serving.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Toast breadcrumbs in a skillet with a little butter before sprinkling on top to enhance their crunch and add a rich, golden flavor to the casserole.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free egg noodles and replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or a gluten-free alternative.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time and assemble the casserole quickly during busy weeknights, making it a convenient and satisfying meal for families.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg