Ground Beef Casserole

 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 large white onion, diced

• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce

• 1 tsp garlic salt

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp white sugar

• 1 package (8 oz) egg noodles

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 package (3 oz) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, if desired)

• Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and crumbled. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic salt, salt, and sugar. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, then remove from heat.

2. Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.

3. Prepare the Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the diced onion, sour cream, and softened cream cheese until smooth.

4. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Top with half of the cream cheese mixture, followed by half of the beef sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, cream mixture, and beef sauce.

6. Add Cheese & Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

7. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.