Creamy Beef & Mushroom Noodle Casserole
This Creamy Beef & Mushroom Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines flavors of savory ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all served over tender egg noodles. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a simple yet delightful meal that can be on your table in under 30 minutes. The addition of cream of mushroom soup enriches the flavor profile, while Parmesan cheese adds a nice finishing touch. Ideal for families or gatherings, this recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (browned and drained)
bulk pork sausage
optional (use as desired) (browned with ground beef)
garlic cloves
4-6 (minced)
crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon (use to taste)
dry onion soup mix
0.5 (1 1/4 ounce) package (used in cooking)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon (added for flavor)
sliced mushrooms
1 (10 ounce) can (well drained and patted dry)
half-and-half cream or milk
2 1/2 cups, divided (used in both gravy and mixed with flour)
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (mixed with cream for gravy)
ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (plus more for serving)
medium dry egg noodles
1 (375 g) package (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet or medium pot, cook the ground beef (and pork sausage, if using) over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat.
2
Add the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, half a package of the dry onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and the drained mushrooms to the skillet. Cook while stirring for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
3
Pour in 2 cups of the half-and-half cream (or milk) and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4
Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes to combine the flavors.
5
In a small bowl, whisk the flour with the remaining half cup of half-and-half until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the beef mixture while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
6
Continue to simmer, stirring with a wooden spoon, for about 3-4 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
7
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined, then season with ground black pepper to taste.
8
Using a serving spoon, evenly divide the cooked egg noodles among plates. Generously ladle the creamy beef and mushroom gravy over the noodles.
9
Finish by sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Beef & Mushroom Noodle Casserole?
It is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce served over tender egg noodles.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This meal can be prepared and on your table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
What type of meat should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of lean ground beef, and you can also add bulk pork sausage if desired.
Can I use pork sausage in this recipe?
Yes, bulk pork sausage is an optional addition that can be browned along with the ground beef for extra flavor.
What kind of mushrooms are needed?
The recipe uses one 10-ounce can of sliced mushrooms, which should be well-drained and patted dry.
How much garlic is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 4 to 6 minced garlic cloves to provide a fragrant and savory base.
Is this beef and mushroom casserole spicy?
It contains 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to your own taste preferences.
What provides the onion flavor in this dish?
The savory onion taste comes from using half of a 1.25-ounce package of dry onion soup mix.
What kind of noodles are best for this casserole?
Medium dry egg noodles are recommended for this recipe.
How do I prepare the egg noodles?
The noodles should be cooked separately according to the instructions on the package before serving.
What is the liquid base for the creamy sauce?
The sauce uses 2.5 cups of half-and-half cream or milk, divided for simmering and thickening.
How do I thicken the mushroom gravy?
Whisk 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with half a cup of the cream, then gradually stir it into the simmering beef mixture.
What type of cheese is used in the recipe?
Grated Parmesan cheese is stirred into the sauce and can also be sprinkled on top for serving.
When do I add the Worcestershire sauce?
Add the Worcestershire sauce after browning the meat, along with the garlic, red pepper flakes, onion soup mix, and mushrooms.
Do I need to drain the meat after browning?
Yes, you should drain the excess fat after cooking the ground beef and sausage to keep the dish from being too oily.
How long should the sauce simmer before thickening?
After adding the cream, bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
How do I prevent lumps in the gravy?
Whisk the flour and a portion of the cream together until smooth in a separate bowl before adding it to the skillet.
What is the final seasoning step?
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and then season with ground black pepper to your taste.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for gatherings and can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd.
Is this a good recipe for families?
Absolutely, it is a simple, delightful meal that is perfect for families or small gatherings.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
While specific serving sizes are not listed, the recipe uses 1 lb of beef and a full package of noodles, typical for 4 to 6 people.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh mushrooms, but ensure you sauté them until they release their moisture before proceeding.
Is there a substitute for half-and-half?
You can use whole milk for a lighter sauce or heavy cream for a much richer version.
What should I serve as a side?
This hearty casserole pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the creamy sauce.
How do I serve the finished dish?
Divide the cooked egg noodles among plates and generously ladle the creamy beef and mushroom gravy over them.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can, but the sauce may thicken as it sits; you might need to add a splash of milk when reheating.
Does this recipe include cream of mushroom soup?
While the description mentions it enriches the flavor, the ingredient list focuses on creating a fresh gravy with cream and flour.
What can I use if I don't have dry onion soup mix?
You can use a mix of onion powder, beef bouillon granules, and dried minced onions as a substitute.
Is this considered a comfort food?
Yes, its creamy texture and savory beef and noodle combination make it a classic comfort food meal.
What tools do I need to make this?
You will need a large skillet or medium pot, a spoon for breaking up meat, and a small bowl for whisking the flour mixture.