If there’s one dish that combines heartwarming comfort, rich flavor, and weeknight convenience, it’s the Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole. This classic recipe has been a family favorite for generations, bringing together tender noodles, savory ground beef, tangy sour cream, and layers of melted cheese. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing a make-ahead freezer meal, or just craving a cozy dinner, this casserole delivers every time.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different proteins, noodles, or spice levels.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be refrigerated or frozen for later.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (adds creaminess; ricotta also works)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella/Colby Jack blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for flavor depth)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
🔄 Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Healthier Twist: Use whole wheat noodles and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in parmesan or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles until al dente (slightly firm, since they’ll bake later). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the beef mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the creamy base: In a bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the noodles.
- Spread half the sour cream mixture over noodles.
- Add half the beef mixture, then sprinkle cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
🥶 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Assemble (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for best texture. Microwave for quick servings.
🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
(Values may vary based on substitutions.)
❓ FAQ – Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I replace sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds protein and a slightly tangy flavor.
Q: What noodles work best?
Egg noodles are traditional, but penne, rotini, or fusilli hold up well too.
Q: How do I prevent my casserole from being watery?
Drain noodles well and simmer beef sauce until slightly thickened before layering.
👨🍳 Expert Tips & Tricks
- Brown beef deeply for richer flavor.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Layer cheese within the casserole, not just on top, for extra gooeyness.
- Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before serving—it firms up and slices better.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort in a dish. With its creamy layers, savory beef, and cheesy topping, it’s guaranteed to win hearts at the dinner table. Best of all, it’s simple, versatile, and freezer-friendly, making it a go-to recipe for busy families and cozy gatherings alike.
Try it once, and it might just become your family’s new favorite tradition.
