Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling angel hair pasta in salted water. Since this pasta is very thin, it cooks in just 3-4 minutes. Be sure not to overcook — it will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and garlic in a splash of oil until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in cream of mushroom soup, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for about 5–7 minutes to develop flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy. This will serve as a rich, tangy middle layer that balances the savory beef.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin by spreading the cooked angel hair pasta evenly across the bottom. Next, spread the cheese mixture over the pasta — you can use a spatula to ensure even coverage. Then, spoon the beef mixture on top, smoothing it out. Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella.
5. Bake
Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you like your cheese with a slightly crisp top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations
To make this dish even more versatile, here are some tips and possible variations:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative to ground beef that still delivers great taste.
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Why Your Family Will Love It
There’s something universally appealing about a hot, cheesy, bubbling casserole. But the Angel Beef Casserole stands out because of its perfect balance between creamy, savory, and tangy flavors — all anchored by light, delicate pasta.
Kids love the cheesy top and meaty flavor, while adults appreciate the satisfying layers and comfort-food nostalgia. It’s one of those dishes that quickly becomes a household favorite after just one bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The beauty of the Angel Beef Casserole lies in its versatility. It’s:
- Weeknight Friendly: Simple enough to prepare in under an hour.
- Potluck Perfect: Travels well and feeds a crowd.
- Freezer Friendly: Can be made ahead and stored in the freezer for quick future meals.
- Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or when you need a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, allow to thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Conclusion
The Angel Beef Casserole is a winning dish that deserves a place in every home cook’s rotation. With layers of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and richly flavored beef, it brings all the hallmarks of a great casserole into one unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will deliver warmth, comfort, and rave reviews.
Try it once, and you may find it becomes a new tradition at your dinner table.
