Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Ree Drummond’s egg noodle casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s rich, hearty, and just the kind of comfort food that makes you feel right at home. Whenever I whip this up, the whole family gathers around the table, and you can just sense the love in the air. The blend of creamy goodness with tender egg noodles and savory beef creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also super easy to make. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients for Ree Drummond Egg Noodle Casserole
- 12 oz egg noodles: These are the star of the dish! They soak up all the creamy goodness and add a comforting texture. I usually go for wide egg noodles, but any kind you love will work.
- 1 lb ground beef: This gives the casserole that hearty protein punch. I recommend using a bit of fat for flavor, but feel free to use lean ground beef if you prefer!
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: This is my secret weapon for creaminess! It adds a lovely flavor and helps bind everything together. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this ingredient.
- 1 cup sour cream: This ingredient takes the casserole to a whole new level of richness. It’s tangy and creamy, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese, glorious cheese! I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but you can pick your favorite cheese to sprinkle on top.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: This adds a lovely aromatic quality to the dish. Sautéing them with the beef brings out their sweetness, creating a wonderful base flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper: I like using green bell peppers for a bit of crunch and color, but any color will work. They add a fresh taste that balances the richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder is a fantastic way to infuse flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. Just a teaspoon adds a delightful aroma!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! This is essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors in the casserole.
How to Prepare Ree Drummond Egg Noodle Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and that cheesy top gets that perfect golden-brown color. Believe me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Cook the Egg Noodles
While your oven warms up, grab a pot and bring some water to a boil. Add in those 12 oz of egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions—usually about 7-9 minutes should do it. Once they’re al dente, drain them well and set them aside. It’s one of the easiest steps, but it’s crucial for the casserole’s texture!
Prepare the Beef Mixture
Now, let’s get that delicious beef mixture ready! In a skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef along with the chopped onion and bell pepper. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want that beef to be nice and browned because that’s where a lot of flavor comes from. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks!
Combine Ingredients
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s creamy and well-blended. Then, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles. Don’t rush this step; you want every noodle coated in that luscious mixture!
Transfer and Bake
Now it’s time to transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with that glorious shredded cheddar cheese. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Ree Drummond egg noodle casserole turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to mix things up with the ingredients. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a lighter option. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, frozen peas or corn work beautifully!
Also, consider using a mix of cheeses for added flavor—try mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick! When baking, keep an eye on the cheese; if it’s browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Lastly, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your casserole game to a whole new level!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for Ree Drummond’s egg noodle casserole per serving (1 cup): 400 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, and 35g carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these numbers are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this comforting dish guilt-free!
Frequently Asked Questions about Ree Drummond Egg Noodle Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Great question! If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken are fantastic options. You could also use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to season them well to keep that flavorful punch!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy dish that comes together in just 45 minutes!
- Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food.
- Hearty and filling, making it a great option for the whole family.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving this egg noodle casserole with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect balance to the richness of the casserole. For something heartier, garlic bread is a fantastic choice—who doesn’t love a little crunch with their comfort food? And if you’re in the mood for something warm, steamed broccoli or green beans adds a lovely touch of color and nutrition. Enjoy the flavors together!
Print
Ree Drummond Egg Noodle Casserole: 5 Heartwarming Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A hearty and comforting egg noodle casserole recipe from Ree Drummond.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until beef is browned.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the beef mixture and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn.
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use different cheese varieties for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Ree Drummond, egg noodle casserole, comfort food, easy recipes