Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ll Crave Every Week

There’s something magical about a bubbling, cheesy casserole that fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is one of those rare dishes that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with the love and simplicity of a home-cooked meal. Originally inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse, this hearty casserole combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce for a flavor that’s pure comfort in every bite.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a cozy dinner night, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite. The best part? It’s easy, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day!

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🔹️ Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole

• ✅️ Restaurant-quality flavor made right at home
• ✅️ Family-friendly and filling — even picky eaters will love it
• ✅️ Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
• ✅️ Creamy, cheesy, and comforting — the perfect weeknight meal
• ✅️ Great for meal prep, potlucks, or freezing ahead

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◾️ Ingredients and Their Delicious Purpose

👉 For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb. ground beef – The heart of this dish, bringing hearty, savory flavor.
• 2 cans (15 oz. each) tomato sauce – Adds tangy sweetness and binds the beef mixture perfectly.
• 1 tsp garlic salt – Enhances and deepens the beef’s flavor.
• 1 tsp salt – Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• 1 tsp white sugar – Adds subtle sweetness that smooths out the tomato base.

👉 For the Creamy Layer

• 1 cup sour cream – Brings rich tanginess and a smooth, creamy texture.
• 1 package (3 oz.) cream cheese – Adds luxurious silkiness to the casserole.
• 1 large white onion, diced – Adds a light crunch and subtle sweetness once baked.

👉 For the Base

• 1 package (8 oz.) egg noodles – The perfect base that absorbs the creamy and savory layers.

👉 For the Topping

• ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or more to taste) – The golden, bubbly crown of the dish.

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🔹️ Step-by-Step Instructions

➡️ 1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease to prevent an oily texture.

➡️ 2. Build Flavor

Add tomato sauce, garlic salt, salt, and sugar. Stir thoroughly and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes to enhance the flavor depth. Remove from heat and cover.

➡️ 3. Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking — this keeps the noodles firm and perfect for layering.

➡️ 4. Prepare the Creamy Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, and onion until smooth and creamy. This layer adds irresistible richness.

➡️ 5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

• 👉 Spread half of the noodles on the bottom.
• 👉 Layer with half of the creamy mixture.
• 👉 Add half of the beef mixture.
• 👉 Repeat with the remaining ingredients for beautiful, even layers.

➡️ 6. Add the Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle Cheddar cheese generously on top — more cheese means more comfort!

➡️ 7. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until the cheese is golden, melted, and bubbling. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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🔹️ Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• ✅️ Use sharp Cheddar for a bold, flavorful finish.
• ✅️ Drain the beef well to prevent soggy layers.
• ✅️ Let it rest before serving so layers set beautifully.
• ✅️ Make it your own by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• ✅️ Double the recipe — one for dinner, one for the freezer!

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◾️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting casserole with:

• 👉 Warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
• 👉 A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• 👉 Roasted vegetables for a balanced plate
• 👉 Finish with apple crisp or chocolate mousse for dessert perfection

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🔹️ Why This Recipe Wins Every Time

This Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of comfort food perfection. With its creamy layers, savory beef, and golden cheese topping, it delivers both nostalgia and flavor in every forkful. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for family gatherings.

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✅️ Try It Tonight!

Once you make this casserole, you’ll see why it’s been loved for generations. Simple ingredients, comforting layers, and unbeatable flavor — a timeless classic that never disappoints!