Beef Noodle Bake
Beef & Noodle Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that has gained popularity for its tasty combination of flavors and textures. This recipe features a delicious blend of ground beef, egg noodles, and cheeses baked to perfection. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also makes for great leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create a mouthwatering Beef & Noodle Bake that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Beef & Noodle Bake recipe is packed with rich flavors, thanks to the combination of spices, cheeses, and ground beef. The creamy sour cream and Greek yogurt blend adds a delightful creaminess that complements the texture of the noodles and meat. Moreover, the melted cheese on top creates a gooey layer that everyone loves. It’s a one-dish meal that is not only filling but also satisfying, making it a favorite among both children and adults. Plus, who doesn’t love a baked pasta dish that’s easy to whip up?
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to preparing a flawless Beef & Noodle Bake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Egg noodles or wide pasta: 300g
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground beef: 500g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (400g)
- Beef broth: ½ cup
- Sour cream: ½ cup
- Plain Greek yogurt: ½ cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once heated, lightly grease a large baking dish and set it aside. This will help the dish not stick during baking.
Step 2: Cook the egg noodles in a pot of salted boiling water until they are al dente. This usually takes about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, allowing it to cook until browned. Break it up using a spatula, and remove any excess fat by draining it, if necessary. This will help reduce greasiness in the final dish.
Step 5: Stir in the salt, black pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld before adding the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Allow it to simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: While the beef mixture simmers, combine the sour cream and Greek yogurt in a small bowl. Mix them until smooth for added creaminess.
Step 7: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture. Stir in the sour cream-yogurt blend until well-coat all the noodles and meat.
Step 8: Pour the noodle and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 9: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. You want it to be golden on top for the best flavor.
Step 10: After it has finished baking, let the Beef & Noodle Bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Pro Tips for Making Beef & Noodle Bake
1. Choose Quality Meat: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
2. Customize with Veggies: Add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
3. Experiment with Cheeses: Mix and match different cheeses for varied flavors. Try adding fontina or gouda for a smoky finish.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance; just bake it an extra 5–10 minutes if refrigerated.
5. Serve with Sides: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute the egg noodles with any wide pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, to suit your preference.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet. Everything else in the recipe is gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
What can I serve with Beef & Noodle Bake?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Beef & Noodle Bake is a delightful dish that combines rich ingredients to bring comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty slice of deliciousness that will surely become a favorite in your household.
