1-Getting started: with beef noodle casserole is as simple as boiling water and browning beef, but let’s walk through it step by step for the best results. Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking 12 ounces of uncooked egg noodles according to package directions until they’re just right; then drain them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for that golden cheese topping.

2-Next, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and add 1 1/4 pounds of lean ground beef, cooking for 4-5 minutes while breaking it up. Once it’s mostly browned, toss in 1 finely chopped onion and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, cooking for another 5 minutes until the onions soften and the beef is fully done. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect savory sauce base.

3-Stir in 16 ounces of canned tomato sauce, 15 ounces of drained diced tomatoes, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to build those rich flavors. Combine the drained noodles with this beef mixture, then transfer everything to a 9”x13” baking dish that’s been sprayed with cooking spray. Top it off with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.

4-Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley over the top before serving for a fresh touch. I always find that adding this parsley at the end makes the dish feel extra special, just like when I make it for gatherings. For more on noodle dishes, check out detailed noodle cooking tips from reliable sources.