Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Combining seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich blend of tomato sauce, mixed vegetables, and sour cream, this casserole is topped with melty cheddar cheese for a delicious, hearty meal. It’s versatile, customizable, and ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables, drained (or fresh veggies)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked egg noodles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Cook Beef:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked and the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess fat. - Mix Ingredients:
Add the tomato sauce, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through. - Combine with Noodles:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked egg noodles with the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir in the sour cream until everything is well combined. - Bake:
Transfer the beef and noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. - Cook:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. - Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to swap the canned mixed vegetables for fresh or frozen options. Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar works wonderfully, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Make it Healthier: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version. You can also opt for whole-wheat noodles and low-fat sour cream to lighten it up.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free.
How to Store Angel Beef Casserole
Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze the casserole, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating: You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make Angel Beef Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What other types of pasta can I use?
You can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente before combining it with the beef mixture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar. Mixing cheeses can also add extra depth of flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils or mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly option.
Angel Beef Casserole is an incredibly flexible dish that can be tailored to fit your family’s taste preferences. Whether you’re looking to keep it classic or spice things up with new ingredients, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!