French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the dry egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add sliced mushrooms to the beef and sauté until tender.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and onion powder to taste.
6. In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and French onion dip until smooth.
7. Add the cooked beef and mushrooms mixture, cooked noodles, and half of the shredded Gouda cheese. Stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining Gouda cheese on top.
9. Top with French fried onions for a crunchy finish.
10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the onions are golden brown.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Storage:

Serve this casserole warm for a hearty meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips:

• Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
• Substitute Gouda with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture.
• Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for additional flavor depth.

Conclusion:

French Onion Beef Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines classic French onion flavors with hearty beef and creamy noodles. It’s easy to prepare, packed with savory goodness, and perfect for any occasion.

FAQ:

Can I use different pasta?
Yes, penne or rotini can work well as alternatives to egg noodles.

Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, freeze before baking and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Use mushrooms and vegetable broth with a meat substitute instead of ground beef.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and gluten-free soup and French fried onions.