Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce
Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen
I can't get enough of this Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce! With rich, tender beef and a velvety sauce that pulls everything together, this dish is a complete comfort food experience. I've made it for family gatherings and cozy nights in, and it never fails to impress. The combination of flavors is truly amazing, especially when served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. I promise that once you've made this casserole, it will become a staple in your kitchen.
When I first tried Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce, I was blown away by how each bite encapsulated both heartiness and comfort. The method I’ve developed works wonderfully, using a combination of browning the beef for flavor and simmering it gently with vegetables and cream. This layering technique really amplifies the depth of flavor!
One specific tip that made a huge difference for me was to allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving it a lot easier. Trust me, it's worth the wait!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavors that celebrate comfort food.
- Creamy sauce that enhances every bite of tender beef.
- Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Why Each Component Matters
The foundation of this Beef Casserole lies in the combination of ground beef, onions, and garlic. The beef provides a hearty, rich flavor, while the onions and garlic significantly enhance the overall taste profile by adding sweetness and depth. It's crucial to brown the beef well to develop a good flavor base. Make sure to stir occasionally and cook until you see a nice browning, as this caramelization adds complexity to the dish.
Mushrooms and peas not only contribute flavor but also texture. Mushrooms bring an earthy note that complements the savory beef, while peas add a subtle sweetness and pop during each bite. When preparing the casserole, be sure to use fresh mushrooms; their moisture helps bind the sauce. If you're in a pinch, canned mushrooms can work but may lack the depth of flavor.
Tips for the Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce is where this casserole truly shines. Mixing cream of mushroom soup with sour cream creates a sauce that's both luxurious and savory without being too heavy. Make sure to mix these bases well until they reach a smooth consistency; this will help ensure that every piece of beef and pasta is evenly coated. If you prefer a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt can be graciously substituted for sour cream, providing a similar tang with less fat.
Adding cheddar cheese is a game-changer, offering a rich flavor that melts beautifully. For a twist, try using a mix of cheeses, like mozzarella or gouda, to enhance creaminess and create a delightful stringy texture. Just be cautious—adding too much cheese can lead to a gooey casserole, so start with the recommended amount before adjusting according to your taste.
Ingredients
For the casserole
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the topping
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or whole grain pasta
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Directions
Prepare the beef mixture
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in mushrooms, peas, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix the creamy sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir into the beef mixture until well integrated. Add cheddar cheese and cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing thoroughly.
Assemble and bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the beef mixture into a greased casserole dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Serve and enjoy
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal with a side salad or crusty bread!
Pro Tips
- For an added flavor boost, try incorporating different vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, this casserole stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Cover it with foil for the first half of warming to prevent the top from overbrowning while the insides heat up. You can also microwave individual portions, which usually take about 2-3 minutes, but may result in slightly less optimal texture.
Freezing is an excellent option if you want to make this dish ahead of time. Assemble the casserole but don't bake it; instead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To bake from frozen, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 1 hour, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 25 minutes, ensuring the center is hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Casserole is comfort food at its best and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish, while crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. If you want to elevate the meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to complement the savory flavors.
For a fun twist, top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole just before finishing in the oven adds an extra layer of flavor and a delightful texture as it crisps up.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes if you prefer a leaner option.
→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s properly sealed in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with beef casserole?
Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce
I can't get enough of this Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce! With rich, tender beef and a velvety sauce that pulls everything together, this dish is a complete comfort food experience. I've made it for family gatherings and cozy nights in, and it never fails to impress. The combination of flavors is truly amazing, especially when served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. I promise that once you've made this casserole, it will become a staple in your kitchen.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Cozy Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the casserole
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the topping
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or whole grain pasta
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in mushrooms, peas, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir into the beef mixture until well integrated. Add cheddar cheese and cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing thoroughly.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the beef mixture into a greased casserole dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal with a side salad or crusty bread!
Extra Tips
- For an added flavor boost, try incorporating different vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g