There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through the house at dinnertime. This sour cream beef noodle casserole is the epitome of cozy comfort food. It’s no wonder this dish has been a family favorite for generations; it wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
Imagine layers of hearty ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy sour cream sauce, all topped with a sprinkle of cheese. It’s like the classic beef stroganoff you love, but baked to perfection in just one pan. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand, making it a breeze for weeknight dinners.
I started making this cozy dish during the chilly fall evenings of 2015. The first time my kids dug in, their eyes lit up, and my youngest declared it “magical.” The secret? Don’t rush the layeringlet each component shine. After years of blogging about easy family meals, this one remains a top pick!
This sour cream beef noodle casserole is a creamy beef noodle bake that’s bursting with flavor. Featuring layers of tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich sour cream mixture, this ground beef noodle casserole is the perfect comfort food beef bake for a hearty weeknight noodle casserole everyone will adore. It’s an easy beef stroganoff casserole alternative that’s great for meal prep or feeding the whole family.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Method
Start by heating the oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a skillet set on medium-high, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion softens, about 10 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.
Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then simmer gently, stirring now and then, for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Meanwhile, boil the egg noodles in salted water following the package directions until tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream and cottage cheese. Fold in the drained noodles, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Spoon half of the noodle mixture into the baking dish, then layer on half of the meat sauce.
Repeat the layers, finishing up with the remaining meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over everything and bake until the casserole bubbles and the cheese is melted and golden, around 30 minutes.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving so the flavors meld nicely.
Notes
For best results, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up and make serving easier. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated well for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting & Cozy: This nostalgic dish is perfect for cold evenings.
Easy to Make: Simple steps make it a breeze for weeknight dinners.
Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adultsit’s a true crowd-pleaser.
Great for Meal Prep: Ideal for leftovers; this casserole warms up beautifully!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Ground Beef: The hearty base of this creamy beef noodle bake, rich in flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy taste that elevates the entire dish.
Cheese: Grated cheddar provides a cheesy topping that melts to perfection.
Egg Noodles: Tender noodles that hold all the goodness together.
Tools: Large skillet, 9×13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, and wooden spoon.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F while you prepare the ingredients.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Add garlic at the end for a fragrant finish.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning; let it simmer to deepen the flavors.
Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles until tender and drain them, setting them aside.
Combine Dairy: Mix the sour cream and cottage cheese in a bowl, then fold in the noodles.
Layer it Up: Start with half of the noodle mixture in the baking dish, add a layer of meat sauce, and repeat.
Add Cheese and Bake: Top with cheddar cheese and bake until bubbly and golden, about 30 minutes.
Cool and Serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes before diving in to allow it to set.
Tweaks & Adjustments
Add Vegetables: Toss in your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add some heat to the sauce.
Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious sour cream beef noodle casserole is best served warm, either on its own or with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it a great choice for family gatherings or cozy nights at home!
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Duration
Notes
In Refrigerator
3 to 5 days
Keep in an airtight container.
In Freezer
2 to 3 months
Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Until heated through
Microwave or oven for best results.
Quick Reference Table
Step
Time
Preheat oven
5 minutes
Cook beef
10 minutes
Simmer sauce
5 minutes
Cook noodles
8 minutes
Bake casserole
30 minutes
This sour cream beef noodle casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a wholesome hug in a dish. With its creamy richness and warm, cheesy goodness, it’s set to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing comfort and joy to your family dinner table.
Expert Says
Sour cream adds a creamy texture and tang to your beef noodle casserole while also providing beneficial probiotics. The dairy’s acidity helps break down proteins in the beef, resulting in a more tender dish. This combination of flavors and nutrients creates a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
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Perfecting My Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
This sour cream beef noodle casserole took me more attempts than I care to admit, but each one was a delicious lesson. I still chuckle thinking about the time I mistook cumin for cinnamon! Now, it’s a family favorite, packed with comforting flavors and just the right amount of creaminess.
FAQs ( Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole )
What is Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole?
This dish is a comforting baked casserole made with ground beef, noodles, and a creamy sour cream sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together hearty ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
How long to cook this recipe?
Bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until it’s bubbling and golden on top. This ensures the flavors meld perfectly, and the noodles are tender without becoming mushy.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you start with it cold.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
What sides pair well with this meal?
This casserole pairs deliciously with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread is also a great addition for a comforting, hearty meal.
Is the casserole kid-friendly?
Yes, this meal is very kid-friendly! The creamy sauce and tender beef make it appealing to children, and it’s an easy way to introduce them to new flavors in a familiar format.
Conclusion
Get ready to fall in love with this sour cream beef noodle casserole! With just a simple 30-minute bake time, you’ll experience a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness that fills your home with warmth and comfort.
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy twistjust remember, this dish is all about making it yours! And if you have leftovers, they reheat beautifullyjust pop them in the microwave for a cozy lunch. A tip I learned from my aunt is to let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving for the perfect slice.
Now I’d love to hear from you! Did you grow up enjoying a dish like this? Snap a photo of your creation and share your memories. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your loved ones; it’s a meal that truly brings everyone together with comfort and joy!
