Beef and Cheddar Casserole
This easy Beef and Cheddar Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and fresh scallions with al dente egg noodles, all tossed in a creamy sour cream and Parmesan sauce. Topped generously with grated Cheddar, it's baked until golden and bubbly, offering a comforting and hearty meal for any weeknight.
Equipment
- 1 2-Quart Baking Dish
- 1 Large Pot For boiling noodles
- 1 Large Skillet For browning beef and vegetables
- 1 Colander For draining noodles
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring and breaking up beef
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil plus more for the baking dish
- Kosher salt
- 3 cups wide egg noodles about 5 ounces
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 12 ounces ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
- 1 bunch scallions white and green parts, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- One 14 1/2-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 cups grated Cheddar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Oil a 2-quart baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and put in the prepared baking dish. Toss with the sour cream, Parmesan and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Add the bell peppers and scallions and cook until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Make a space in the pan, add the tomato paste and toast for a minute. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the diced tomatoes, stir and bring to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Pour the beef mixture over the noodles and sprinkle with the grated Cheddar. Bake on the middle rack until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling, 15 to 20 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
To elevate the beef flavor, brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a rich fond before adding vegetables, and consider deglazing with a splash of beef broth. Ensure noodles are cooked precisely al dente; they'll finish cooking in the oven, preventing a mushy texture. For enhanced cheese flavor, use a sharp aged cheddar. Toasting the tomato paste is crucial for deepening its complex notes and reducing acidity. Be mindful of seasoning throughout, tasting at each stage. The 10-minute resting period post-baking is vital for the casserole to set properly, ensuring clean portions and a cohesive structure.