When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a hearty, bubbling beef and cheddar egg noodle bake. Rich, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef, this dish is the definition of a cozy, family-friendly meal. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight, a Sunday dinner, or feeding a crowd, this easy-to-make casserole will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Why This Beef and Cheddar Egg Noodle Bake Is a Must-Try
This dish combines the hearty flavor of seasoned beef, the soft texture of egg noodles, and the melty richness of cheddar cheese, all baked together in one pan. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s fully customizable to suit your taste or pantry availability.
Ingredients for the Perfect Beef and Cheddar Noodle Bake
Main Components
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for flavor or lean for lighter version)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds tang and depth)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make Beef and Cheddar Egg Noodle Bake
1. Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings (basil, oregano, salt, and pepper). Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
3. Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine and Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked egg noodles, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well to evenly coat the noodles.
Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Beef and Cheddar Noodle Bake
Use Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar adds more depth and tang to balance the richness of the beef and noodles.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Since the noodles will bake again, undercook them slightly during the boiling step to avoid a mushy texture.
Customize the Add-Ins
Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make It Ahead
Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cook time.
Variations and Substitutions
Make It Spicy
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
Swap the Protein
Try it with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option
Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini, cauliflower florets, or shirataki noodles for a low-carb version.
Make It a One-Pot Dish
Use an oven-safe skillet to prepare the entire dish and then transfer it directly into the oven for fewer dishes to clean.
What to Serve with Beef and Cheddar Egg Noodle Bake
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal. Some great options include:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Caesar salad or garden salad
- Pickles or coleslaw for a tangy contrast
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:
- Microwave: Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil.
This dish also freezes beautifully. Portion into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, but egg noodles give the best soft, buttery texture. Penne, rotini, or macaroni can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, beefy flavor and familiar pasta base.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute the flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
A Classic Casserole for Every Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a potluck, feeding a hungry family, or meal prepping for the week, the beef and cheddar egg noodle bake is a surefire winner. It’s warm, satisfying, easy to customize, and loaded with flavor. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
