Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting classic that fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. This creamy baked dish combines tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
4. Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Step 6: Spread half of the cooked noodles into the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles and spread gently.
7. Step 7: Add half of the beef mixture over the creamy layer.
8. Step 8: Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef mixture.
9. Step 9: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
10. Step 10: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Step 11: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use wide egg noodles and cook them just until al dente to avoid over-soft noodles after baking.
• Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies and nutrition.
• Double the cheese for an extra cheesy casserole.
• For a spicy twist, mix in diced green chiles and taco seasoning.
• Make it ahead by assembling the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerating before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.

What is the best cheese for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses work best, offering a great balance of flavor and meltiness.

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 73 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish combining tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a rich sour cream sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for easy family dinners, make-ahead meals, and holiday gatherings, this classic casserole delivers nostalgic flavors with simple pantry ingredients and satisfying, cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Noodle Layer

• 12 ounces wide egg noodles

Beef Mixture

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 blend)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened

Cheese Topping

• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Optional Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente according to package directions, ensuring they retain a slight bite to avoid over-softening during baking. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the beef mixture: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring and breaking the beef into small crumbles until browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Make the creamy sauce: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream, mixing until completely smooth and creamy. Fold in the cooked noodles, ensuring all noodles are evenly coated.
5. Assemble the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the creamy noodle mixture across the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cheese, then top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
7. Rest before serving: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set the layers and make serving easier. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• Use wide egg noodles for best texture that holds up during baking.
• Cook noodles just until al dente to prevent mushiness.
• Drain excess grease from beef to avoid greasy casserole.
• Full-fat sour cream and cream cheese create the creamiest texture, but reduced-fat versions can be used.
• Sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide excellent flavor and meltability.
• The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.
• Freeze uncooked or cooked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for variation.
• Do not overbake to avoid dryness; bake until cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Baked Casserole, Family Meal, Ground Beef Recipe, Creamy Noodles, Classic American Casserole