Ground Beef Casserole (The Ultimate Cozy, Cheesy Family Dinner)

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.

2. Stir in garlic salt, salt, sugar, and tomato sauce. Mix well and simmer for about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cover.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.

4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine diced onion, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

6. Layer half of the noodles in the casserole dish. Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles, then top with half of the beef mixture.

7. Repeat the layers.

8. Sprinkle generously with shredded Cheddar cheese.

9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Casserole

• Simple green salad

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted vegetables

• Coleslaw

Tips for the Best Casserole

• Soften cream cheese before mixing for a smoother texture

• Don’t overcook the noodles—they’ll finish cooking in the oven

• Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before serving

• Add extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent (no judgment!)

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through

• This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months

General Recipe Information

• Cuisine: American comfort food

• Difficulty: Easy

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6–8

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze before or after baking.

Why add sugar to the sauce?

It balances the acidity of the tomato sauce for a smoother flavor.

Can I skip the onion?

You can, but it adds great flavor. Onion powder can be used instead.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Casserole is everything a comfort meal should be—easy, hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe is a keeper you’ll come back to again and again.

More Comforting Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this one, be sure to check out:

• Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake

• Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake

• Old-Fashioned War-Time Cake

Let’s Get Social!

⭐ Leave a review and let me know how it turned out
📸 Share your casserole photos on Pinterest—I love seeing your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 23g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fat: 22g

• Sodium: 780mg

Simple ingredients. Big comfort. And a whole lot of love baked right in. 💛