Savory Christmas Eve Beef Casserole – A Comfort Food Holiday Classic

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Nothing says “holiday comfort” quite like a bubbling, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Savory Christmas Eve Beef Casserole is a hearty winter recipe that blends rich flavors, tender noodles, and perfectly seasoned beef into a dish your family will ask for year after year. Ideal for Christmas Eve dinner or any cold-weather gathering, it delivers both festive charm and homestyle comfort. The combination of ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and wholesome vegetables makes it a balanced yet indulgent meal. It’s also versatile—you can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or tweak the ingredients to match your taste. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, warm crusty bread, or roasted winter vegetables for a complete holiday feast. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying an intimate family meal, this casserole is sure to become a seasonal tradition worth keeping.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 10.75-ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups cooked egg noodles
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    Makes 6 servings

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the beef with onion and garlic until meat is cooked and onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in tomatoes, mushroom soup, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add cooked noodles and mix until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition & Dietary Info

This casserole provides a satisfying balance of protein from beef, carbohydrates from pasta, and vitamins from the mixed vegetables. It is not gluten-free due to the noodles and condensed soup, but can be adapted with gluten-free alternatives. Cheese adds a dose of calcium, while the vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants. It’s a hearty, energy-rich dish best enjoyed as part of a balanced holiday menu.