Unleash the flavors of comfort with this oven ground beef and noodle recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish combines hearty ground beef with tender noodles, all baked to perfection. It’s a family favorite that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat.
Why This Recipe Works
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup by cooking everything in one dish, from browning the beef to baking the final product.
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of ground beef, spices, and noodles creates a rich, satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different spices, cheeses, or vegetables to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups egg noodles, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, dice the onion and mince the garlic. This prep work ensures a smooth cooking process once you start.
Brown the Beef
In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Mix the Ingredients
Add the uncooked egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the mixture.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the cover, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the noodles to absorb any remaining liquid. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with a tablespoon of butter. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked noodles, but reduce the baking time to 15 minutes. Always let the dish rest before serving to ensure the perfect texture. Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a new twist. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat sour cream.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Vegetable Loaded: Stir in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables with the noodles for added nutrition.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in an extra half cup of cheese with the noodles before baking for a gooier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne or rotini. Just adjust the baking time as needed based on the pasta’s cooking instructions.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your cream of mushroom soup and beef broth are gluten-free. There are many great gluten-free options available that won’t compromise the dish’s flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to eat, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Summary
This oven ground beef and noodle recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a foolproof meal that’s sure to please.