ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your egg noodles (or pasta of choice) according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Use a spatula to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and the onions are softened, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
To the beef and onion mixture, add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir well to combine everything into a creamy sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the sauce is heated through and the flavors have melded together, add the cooked noodles to the beef mixture. Stir well, making sure the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce. Then, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef and noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheese, covering the casserole in a delicious, cheesy layer.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the casserole in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, for a touch of color and freshness. Slice and serve hot!
Tips for Making the Best Angel Beef Casserole:
- Beef alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. You can also use a mix of ground beef and sausage for added flavor.
- Vegetable options: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding vegetables such as frozen peas, carrots, or mushrooms into the beef mixture.
- Cheese variety: While cheddar cheese is a classic, feel free to mix things up by adding mozzarella, parmesan, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
- Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced green chilies to the beef mixture for a subtle kick.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Why This Casserole is Perfect for Any Meal:
- Family-friendly: This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of dish that appeals to everyone, thanks to its comforting and familiar flavors.
- Comfort food: The rich, creamy sauce and melted cheese are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for warming you up on a cold evening.
- Meal prep: Not only does this casserole make a great dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner.
- Crowd-pleasing: If you’re hosting a potluck, family gathering, or dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make in large quantities and can feed a lot of people.
Conclusion:
Angel Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes for a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this casserole has got you covered.
The best part? It’s so versatile and customizable. You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences, ensuring that this dish is perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
