Name: Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups beef broth; 1 chicken bouillon cube; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon mustard powder; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ cup heavy cream (can substitute half and half or milk); 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons flour; 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 lb. ground beef; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); ½ lb. egg noodles (uncooked)

If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines hearty flavors with melty, cheesy goodness, this Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It’s a rich, satisfying casserole that brings together tender ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and soft egg noodles in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish hits all the right notes and feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two round white pots are shown side by side on a white marbled surface. The left pot holds cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of translucent white onion, its texture crumbly but moist, with some browned bits stuck on the sides of the pot. A black spatula is partially resting on the meat, positioned at the top right inside of the pot. The right pot contains a creamy light brown sauce with streaks and bubbles visible on the surface, showing it has just been stirred. A silver fork rests inside the pot, touching the sauce near the center. The pots have slightly browned edges inside, adding a rustic look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays an essential role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe shine. From the savory spices that bring depth to the sauce to the sharp cheddar that melts into cheesy perfection, every element counts.

Beef broth: The rich, meaty base that infuses the sauce with hearty flavor.
Chicken bouillon cube: Adds an extra punch of savory depth to the broth.
Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): A subtle umami boost that enhances the overall savory profile.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a gentle, sweet onion flavor without extra moisture.
Garlic powder and mustard powder (½ teaspoon each): These spices layer in warmth and a touch of tang.
Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): Brings a hint of earthiness and herbal brightness.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.
Ground beef (1 lb.): The star protein, browned and perfectly seasoned.
Salt and pepper: Basic but indispensable seasonings to balance tastes.
Small onion, diced: Adds texture and natural sweetness when cooked.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Fresh garlic for aromatic depth.
Egg noodles (½ lb., uncooked): These tender noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Butter (3 tablespoons): Used to create a silky roux for thickening the sauce.
Flour (3 tablespoons): Combines with butter to make a roux that thickens the casserole sauce.
Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz. can): Brings robust flavor and extra creaminess.
Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): Sharp and melty cheese that makes the dish irresistibly cheesy.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Ingredients

Start by combining the beef broth, chicken bouillon cube, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, dried thyme, and heavy cream in a large measuring cup with a spout and set it aside. Having this ready early helps keep the cooking process smooth and ensures the sauce develops a rich depth of flavor later on.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions

Season your ground beef lightly with salt and pepper. In a deep 12-inch skillet heated over medium-high, add the beef and diced onions. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula until it’s evenly browned and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from feeling greasy and transfer the mixture to a plate.

Step 3: Bring Water to Boil for Noodles

While working on the sauce, don’t forget to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking your egg noodles. Timing is everything in this dish, so get your water heating early to stay on track.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Build the Sauce

Return to your skillet. Melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to brown and lose its raw taste. Gradually add the sauce mixture in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once combined, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles

Cook your egg noodles in the boiling water according to the package until al dente—just tender enough with a slight bite. Drain them thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the dish.

Step 6: Combine Cheese, Beef, and Noodles

Turn the heat down to low on your skillet. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until fully melted and incorporated. Add the browned ground beef back into the skillet and mix well. Finally, fold in the cooked noodles, stirring gently to coat every noodle in that luscious sauce. The mixture will thicken further as it stands, resulting in a perfectly creamy and cheesy casserole consistency.

How to Serve Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe

The image shows two side-by-side round white pans placed on a white marbled surface. The left pan is filled with plain yellow spiral pasta with a creamy sauce at the bottom, and a red spoon partly dipped in the pasta on the right side. The right pan contains the same pasta now mixed with ingredients like finely cut green spinach leaves and small light brown mushroom pieces, all covered evenly by a thick creamy sauce, giving a rich textured look. Both shots have soft lighting, and a white cloth is casually placed next to the right pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving goes beyond just spooning onto the plate—adding a garnish makes the experience shine. Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions brings a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous bite that balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides. Think a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans to brighten up your meal and add some necessary crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve it straight from the casserole dish for that warm, homey vibe. If you’re hosting, consider plating individual portions in small ramekins topped with an extra pinch of shredded cheddar and a quick broil for a golden, bubbly crust that feels indulgent and impressive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and textures intact. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Freezing

This casserole freezes well when stored properly. Divide leftovers into freezer-safe containers or wraps and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to enjoy a convenient and comforting meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals to maintain that creamy texture without drying out. Adding a splash of beef broth while reheating can help revive the sauce wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this casserole?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are recommended for their texture and how well they absorb the sauce, you can substitute with wide pasta like pappardelle or even penne for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can make a homemade creamy mushroom sauce or substitute with cream of chicken soup if desired. The soup adds richness and flavor, so consider adding sautéed mushrooms for that authentic taste.

Can this Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe be made gluten free?

Certainly! Use gluten-free flour to make the roux and swap regular egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. Make sure your broth and bouillon are certified gluten free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diners.

What’s the best cheddar cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides the perfect balance of tang and creaminess, but feel free to experiment with extra sharp or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier melt.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Toss in some peas, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach when stirring in the noodles to add color, nutrition, and subtle flavor enhancements without overpowering the comforting base of this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those all-time favorites that never fails to bring comfort and smiles around the table. Its blend of creamy, cheesy sauce and tender noodles with savory beef makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again.

Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need