Ground Beef Noodle Recipe: Easy & Delicious Family Meal

This ground beef noodle recipe is quick, simple, and a family favorite. Enjoy a hearty, delicious meal in under 30 minutes!

Why This Ground Beef Noodle Recipe Works

This ground beef noodle recipe is a winner for busy weeknights. It’s fast, uses simple items, and tastes great. Most importantly, kids and adults love it!
It is truly comfort food.

Firstly, ground beef cooks quickly. Secondly, noodles are easy to prepare. Furthermore, this recipe is very adaptable. You can customize it with your family’s favorite flavors.
It is a perfect ground beef noodle recipe for any day of the week. Because of its ease of preparation and flexibility, it is an outstanding choice for anyone new to cooking.
Additionally, the simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to teach to children. Consequently, it becomes a fun family activity.

The Best Type of Noodles for Ground Beef

The best noodles for this dish depend on personal choice.
However, some noodles work better than others. Egg noodles are a classic choice. They are broad and hold the sauce well.
Elbow macaroni is another great option. They are small and easy to eat. Rotini, penne, or bow ties also work well.
For instance, consider the texture and how well the noodles grab the sauce.
Ultimately, any noodle you love will likely work in this ground beef noodle recipe. After all, food is about personal choice.

Moreover, consider gluten-free options like rice noodles or chickpea pasta for dietary needs. Similarly, vegetable noodles can be used for a lower carbohydrate version.
Ultimately, the best noodles are the ones you enjoy the most in your ground beef noodle recipe.

Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

This ground beef noodle recipe requires simple items you likely have. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound noodles (egg noodles, macaroni, etc.)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Optional: shredded cheese for topping

Ensure you have everything prepared before starting. Therefore, cooking will be smoother and faster. Besides the items listed above, you can also add other spices to change the flavor.
For example, a bay leaf added while simmering can add great depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make your ground beef noodle recipe:

Cook the Noodles: First, cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Remember to salt the water!
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Draining the grease is important. Therefore, the dish is not too oily.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. You do not want to burn the garlic. Therefore, keep the heat at a medium level.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. You can also add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the ground beef sauce. Stir well to combine. Make sure all the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Simmering is very important. Therefore, the sauce thickens and flavors combine.
Serve: Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired. You can use any type of cheese you like.

Tips for a Delicious Ground Beef Noodle Dish

Here are some tips to make your ground beef noodle dish even better:

Brown the Beef Well: Browning the ground beef adds flavor. Don’t rush this step! It’s called the Maillard reaction.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have them, fresh herbs will take this recipe to the next level. Fresh basil and oregano are great.
Simmer the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps the flavors come together. The longer it simmers, the better.
Add a Splash of Red Wine: For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers. A dry red wine works best.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Cook them al dente. Always follow the package directions.
Use Quality Ingredients: Using higher-quality ingredients will always lead to a better result. However, don’t stress if you can’t get everything fresh.

Follow these tips for a tasty ground beef noodle recipe.

Variations on This Ground Beef and Noodles Recipe

This ground beef and noodles recipe is easy to customize. Here are some variations to try:

Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Adding vegetables makes the recipe more nutritious.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Use Different Meats: Try ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef. Ground chicken is another healthy alternative.
Add Cheese: Mix in ricotta cheese or cream cheese for a creamy sauce. Add it near the end of cooking.
Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end. A little goes a long way.
Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor. Button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms all work well.
Use Different Sauces: Experiment with different tomato sauces. Arrabiata for a spicy kick is a good example.

These variations make this ground beef noodle recipe fun and exciting. These additions can change the whole flavor profile. Consequently, the possibilities are endless.

Serving Suggestions for Your Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

This ground beef noodle recipe is a complete meal on its own. However, here are some serving suggestions:

Side Salad: Serve with a simple side salad. A vinaigrette dressing is a nice contrast.
Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for dipping. Toasted baguette slices with garlic butter are simple and delicious.
Steamed Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli or green beans. Steaming retains nutrients.
Cornbread: Enjoy with a slice of cornbread. A slightly sweet cornbread is an excellent compliment.
Coleslaw: Serve with a side of coleslaw for a bit of crunch. A vinegar-based coleslaw is best.

These sides compliment the flavors of the ground beef noodle recipe. They create a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Also, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra touch.

Storing Leftover Ground Beef and Noodles

Storing leftovers is simple:

Cool: Allow the ground beef and noodles to cool completely. Cooling quickly prevents bacterial growth.
Store: Place in an airtight container. Use a container that seals well.
Refrigerate: Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Make sure the ground beef noodle recipe is heated thoroughly before eating. Use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.

Make Ahead Tips For Your Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

You can save time by prepping some items ahead of time:

Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef a day or two in advance. Then store it in the refrigerator.
Chop Vegetables: Chop onions, garlic, and other vegetables ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers.
Make the Sauce: Prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

These steps can significantly reduce cooking time on busy weeknights.

Freezing Your Ground Beef Noodle Casserole

This dish freezes well. Therefore, it is great for meal prepping:

Cool Completely: Let the cooked ground beef noodle casserole cool completely. This prevents ice crystals from forming.
Portion: Divide into individual portions or freeze the whole casserole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the container with the date.
Thaw: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life. Consequently, you can have a ground beef noodle casserole ready whenever you want.

Nutritional Information for Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

Ground beef and noodle dishes contain nutrients. Keep an eye on the portion sizes. The items used will change the exact totals. The following is an estimate for one serving:

Calories: 450-550
Protein: 30-40 grams
Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
Fat: 15-25 grams

These are estimations. Therefore, it’s best to calculate based on the items you specifically use. Consider using leaner ground beef.

Pairing Drinks with Your Ground Beef Noodle Dish

Pairing drinks with your ground beef noodle dish can enhance the meal. Here are a few suggestions:

Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais works well.
Beer: A lager or pale ale provides a refreshing contrast.
Sparkling Water: A simple sparkling water with a lemon wedge cleanses the palate.
Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is a good option.

Making It a Ground Beef Noodle Casserole

Transform this dish into a ground beef noodle casserole. This is a great way to make a larger meal:

Prepare the Dish: Follow the recipe up to the point of combining the noodles and sauce.
Add Cheese: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix).
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle more cheese on top.
Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

The ground beef noodle casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal.

The History of Ground Beef and Noodle Dishes

Ground beef and noodle dishes have a long history. They are found in many cuisines around the world. Therefore, it’s hard to find one true beginning. Dishes like American goulash and stroganoff share similarities. They feature ground beef and noodles in a flavorful sauce. These dishes often evolved as ways to use economical items. Because of its versatility, it became widespread. The accessibility has made it a staple in many households.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I add to noodles to make them tasty?

You can add many things! For example, try butter, garlic, cheese, herbs, or spices. A simple sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes can be delicious. Alternatively, you can use leftover meat sauce or pesto.

What can I add to ground beef to make it better?

There are numerous ways to enhance ground beef. Add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Also, consider Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or tomato paste for depth of flavor. Onions, garlic, and bell peppers also boost the taste.

Do ground beef and egg go together?

Yes, ground beef and egg can be a tasty combination. For instance, you can add a fried egg on top of a ground beef bowl or stir scrambled eggs into ground beef stir-fries. They are often used together in Asian-inspired dishes.

How to make instant beef noodles taste better?

To improve instant beef noodles, add fresh vegetables like spinach or bean sprouts. Enhance the flavor with soy sauce, sesame oil, or a dash of chili sauce. Furthermore, adding a soft-boiled egg or leftover cooked meat can elevate the dish.

Easy Ground Beef Noodle Recipe

Table of Contents