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Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole: A Nostalgic Delight
Reminiscent of childhood memories, Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines simplicity with savory delight. If you’re searching for the best ground beef casserole recipes, this vintage recipe, originating from the 1940’s, is a must-try. It’s a family favorite that brings together ground beef, noodles, and a creamy cheese mixture for a comforting meal. My grandmother perfected this recipe as a means to utilize fridge leftovers, and over the years, it has become a timeless classic.
Yield: A Tasty 9×13-inch Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 1 9×13-inch casserole
Ingredients for Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large white onion, diced
- ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, or more to taste
Instructions: Preparing Your Ground Beef Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. As it cooks, break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Consequently, this process should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Add the cans of tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir in the sugar, garlic salt, and salt. Therefore, let the mixture simmer on low heat for around 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 3: Boil the Noodles
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. In other words, make sure they are soft but not overly mushy as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 4: Combine and Layer
In a medium bowl, blend the sour cream, cream cheese, and diced onion until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Subsequently, spread half of the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Layer with the cooked noodles, followed by the sour cream mixture. Evenly distribute the remaining beef mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese to your preference.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Above all, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully.
Optional Healthier Cooking Tips
For an even healthier take on this comfort classic, consider swapping out regular noodles for whole wheat or pasta alternatives. Additionally, using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese can decrease the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
This ground beef casserole recipe is a delightful ‘one-pan’ meal that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s quick and easy, taking only an hour from start to finish. Most importantly, it’s a versatile dish that you can adapt to your family’s taste preferences. With its comforting blend of textures and flavors, it caters to all ages, making it a perfect family meal.
To sum up, don’t miss out on the chance to savor a beloved family recipe that stands the test of time. Try Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole today and enjoy a trip down memory lane with every bite!
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