Introduction:
This comforting casserole is the ultimate dish for family dinners, offering a combination of savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness.
With the right balance of flavors and textures, this casserole is easy to make and perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe when you’re in the mood for something filling and delicious.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cups cooked egg noodles
1 can cream of mushroom soup.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
Once the beef is done, drain any excess fat and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for a few minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
Next, stir in the frozen peas, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Once the vegetables are softened, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef and vegetable mixture. Then.
add the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk, stirring until everything is evenly mixed and coated.
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top if you’d like extra cheesy goodness.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes.
remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. When ready, scoop out hearty portions and serve warm.
You’ll notice how the creamy cheese and savory beef create the perfect comforting bite every time. This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Make:
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain the fat and set the beef aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their aroma.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want them to thaw and warm through without overcooking.
After the vegetables are ready, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a minute. Meanwhile, prepare your cooked egg noodles, ensuring they’re drained and ready to go.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and veggie mixture. Add the can of cream of mushroom soup.
milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well, making sure the noodles are coated in the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy finish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out during baking.
Place it in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes to let the top become golden brown and bubbly. Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
To save time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or even leftover beef from another meal. This can help speed up the preparation process.
If you prefer a bit more texture, consider adding breadcrumbs to the top before baking for a crispy, crunchy topping.
For a twist on the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder when cooking the beef for extra depth.
Feel free to swap out the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Green beans, corn, or bell peppers would all be great substitutes for peas, adding variety to the dish.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a lower-fat version or even a homemade creamy sauce using Greek yogurt or sour cream.
To make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture.
Conclusion:
This casserole is a warm and comforting meal that your family will look forward to every time you make it.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a great dish to prepare when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
It’s not just tasty, but also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you stick to the original.
recipe or add your own twist, this casserole will never disappoint. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a family favorite!