I contributed this dish for a party, and guests couldn't stop going on about it

There's something extraordinarily comforting about a good old-fashioned casserole, and this Beef and Mushroom Noodle Bake is no exception. Rooted in simple, hearty Midwestern cuisine, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights or for when you want to prepare something special for your loved ones. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for those picky eaters in the family!

This Beef and Mushroom Noodle Bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or some steamed green beans. You might also enjoy serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors. For a touch of freshness, consider adding a small bowl of mixed fruit or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the casserole.

Servings: 6

12 oz egg noodles
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles until the noodles are evenly coated with the beef mixture.

Transfer the noodle mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef. If you have mushroom haters in the family, feel free to substitute them with chopped bell peppers or zucchini. To add a bit of a kick, try stirring in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. And for those who are cheese lovers, extra cheese on top never hurts!