This Savory Herb Beef Casserole is the perfect comforting dish for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends. It's packed with hearty ingredients and a blend of herbs that bring warmth and depth to every bite. Plus, it's a breeze to put together!
Ground beef forms the hearty base of the casserole. Choose a lean variety to keep it from being overly greasy. Onion and garlic add essential aromatic flavors that enhance the entire dish. Mushrooms give an earthy depth, soaking up all those delicious juices. Beef broth and cream of mushroom soup create a rich sauce that ties everything together.
Frozen peas bring a pop of color and a slight sweetness. Egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the sauce. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a lovely tanginess and creamy texture. The combination of thyme and rosemary provides a fragrant herbaceous note, while salt and black pepper ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced. A touch of olive oil starts everything off with a subtle richness.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate. For a beverage, a light red wine like a Pinot Noir complements the dish nicely.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when you are. In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent, which should take about 3 minutes — you want them soft but not browned.
Add the ground beef to the skillet next. Stir it around, breaking it up with your spoon, until it's browned all the way through. This should take another 5 minutes or so. Once it's cooked, you'll want to drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Now, throw in the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they soften up. They'll release some moisture and soak up that delicious beef flavor. Stir in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
While that's simmering, cook your egg noodles according to the package directions, then drain them well. In a large mixing bowl, combine the simmered meat mixture, cooked noodles, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheese. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, then pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Once it's done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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