This creamy, cheesy beef and vegetable noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Made with tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s an easy and delicious dinner the whole family will love.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 6 Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles or thin spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- ½ cup broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the noodles and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced carrots and beef broth to the skillet.
Cover and simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
Stir in the green peas and chopped broccoli.
Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still colorful.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low.
Add butter and heavy cream to the beef and vegetable mixture.
Stir gently until everything is combined.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet.
Using two large spoons, gently toss the noodles with the beef, vegetables, and creamy cheese sauce.
Mix until every noodle is evenly coated.
If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of warm beef broth.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a rectangular glass baking dish with butter.
Transfer the noodle mixture into the prepared dish.
Spread evenly with a spoon.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until heated through and bubbling gently around the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 3–5 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole.
Serve warm directly from the baking dish.
Enjoy the creamy noodles, tender beef, melted cheese, and delicious vegetables.
Professional Cooking Tips
Don’t overcook the noodles: Cooking them al dente prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts more smoothly than many pre-shredded varieties.
Keep the vegetables colorful: Avoid overcooking the carrots, peas, and broccoli.
Add extra creaminess: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Season the beef well: Browning the beef properly adds depth and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 610 kcal |
| Protein | 31 g |
| Carbohydrates | 51 g |
| Fat | 31 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Actual values depend on the ingredients and portions used.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Noodle Casserole combines everything you love about homemade comfort food in one easy dish. With flavorful ground beef, tender noodles, creamy cheese, and colorful vegetables, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, and meal preparation.