Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole

Nobody makes casserole like your Grandma. That's why this old-fashioned ground beef casserole with egg noodles is always such a hit! It's made with ingredients you already have on hand (and, of course, a little bit of love).

Ground Beef Casserole Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this old-fashioned ground beef casserole:

Ground BeefOf course, you'll need ground beef for this casserole. The recipe calls for about one pound.

Tomato SauceCanned tomato sauce adds flavor and helps bring the casserole together.

SeasoningsWhite sugar, salt, and garlic salt are used to add flavor to the tomato sauce.

PastaEgg noodles work best for this old-fashioned ground beef casserole, but you can substitute whatever noodles you have on hand.

Sour Cream and Cream CheeseSour cream and cream cheese make the casserole extra rich and creamy. Plus, they add a bit of pleasant tang.

OnionA diced white onion kicks the flavor and texture up a notch.

Cheddar CheeseShredded Cheddar cheese is sprinkled on top of the casserole to create a decadent finish. You could also use shredded Monterey Jack to turn the heat up a notch.

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

You'll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here's what you can expect when you make this classic ground beef casserole with egg noodles:

Cook and Season the Ground Beef

Cook the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it's brown and crumbly. Drain and discard the grease. Mix tomato sauce, sugar, garlic salt, and salt into the ground beef and simmer until the flavors blend. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Cook Egg Noodles

Boil the egg noodles until they're cooked through, but are still quite firm. Drain in a colander and allow to cool slightly.

Mix Sour Cream and Cream Cheese

Mix the sour cream, cream cheese, and diced onion in a medium bowl until well-combined.

Assemble and Bake

Layer half of the egg noodles into a greased casserole dish. Top with half of the sour cream mixture, then half of the beef mixture. Repeat in the same order. Sprinkle the top layer of beef with cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and golden, about 25-30 minutes.

How to Store Ground Beef Casserole

Store leftover ground beef casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can You Freeze Ground Beef Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze ground beef casserole. If you plan to freeze it, it's best to make the casserole in an aluminum casserole pan so you can bake and freeze it in the same dish.

Allow the casserole to cool, then cover tightly. Wrap the entire dish (pan and cover included) in one layer of storage wrap followed by one layer of foil.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

“Loved It,” raves Lisab. “I sauteed the onion with the meat and used only one can of sauce since I did not have a full package of noodles. Will definitely make it again!”

“I’ve been making this for years, but always add taco seasoning while cooking the ground beef and omit the sugar,” says Holly. “Delicious!!”

“This was divine,” according to ShebasMom. “I can’t wait until dinner time tomorrow when we can eat leftovers. My husband and I will definitely make this again. Thanks for the recipe.”