Beef Pasta Casserole: A Comforting Classic for the Whole Family
When it comes to hearty, crowd-pleasing dinners, few dishes match the comfort and satisfaction of a bubbling beef pasta casserole fresh out of the oven. This recipe blends tender egg noodles, a rich tomato-based beef sauce, and a creamy, cheesy filling, all topped with golden, melted mozzarella. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a dish to impress at a casual gathering, this casserole delivers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nostalgia.
But what makes this dish so universally loved? Is it the simplicity of ingredients, the layers of creamy and savory flavors, or the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes? The answer is: all of the above.
Let’s dive into how to make this comforting casserole step by step—and why it should be part of your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This beef pasta casserole comes together using simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture.
For the Casserole:
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1 lb ground beef – Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
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12 oz egg noodles – Their soft, slightly chewy texture holds up beautifully in baked dishes.
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1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
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2 garlic cloves, minced – A classic flavor booster.
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Provides a rich, smooth base.
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained – Adds texture and a punch of tomato flavor.
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1 tsp Italian seasoning – Brings a blend of herbs like oregano and basil.
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top for that perfect golden crust.
For the Creamy Layer:
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1 cup sour cream – Adds tang and richness.
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1 cup cottage cheese – Offers creaminess with a bit of texture and protein boost.
Optional Garnish:
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Fresh chopped parsley – Adds color and a fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly from the start.
2. Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until just al dente. Drain them and set aside. They’ll finish cooking in the oven and absorb some of that savory sauce, making them even more flavorful.
3. Prepare the Beef Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent. Be sure to drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
Now, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld together, creating a rich, savory base.
Imagine the beef simmering gently, the smell of garlic and herbs filling the kitchen—it’s the kind of aroma that draws everyone to the dinner table.
4. Mix the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese until smooth and well-blended. This layer adds a creamy, slightly tangy contrast that makes the casserole stand out from typical pasta bakes.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Layer the components as follows:
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Half of the cooked noodles
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Half of the sour cream–cottage cheese mixture
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Half of the beef sauce
Then repeat: 4. Remaining noodles 5. Remaining creamy mixture 6. Remaining beef sauce
Finally, sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer that will melt into golden perfection.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
7. Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
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A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the sauce
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Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition
It also makes excellent leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Why This Beef Pasta Casserole Works
What makes this dish special is its layers of texture and flavor:
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The savory beef sauce brings richness and depth.
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The creamy layer adds a smooth, cheesy contrast that complements the tang of the tomatoes.
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The melted mozzarella on top offers that familiar, satisfying finish we all crave.
It’s also highly customizable. Want to add vegetables? Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Prefer a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of beef.
Nutrition & Details
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 6–8
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Calories: ~460 kcal per serving
This beef pasta casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of why comfort food never goes out of style. It’s warm, flavorful, and built for sharing.
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Family Dinner
If you’re looking for a reliable, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner that satisfies even the pickiest eaters, this beef pasta casserole fits the bill. With simple pantry ingredients, easy prep, and layers of flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
