Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Sour cream beef noodle casserole is my go—to for chilly nights when comfort food is the only thing that will do. Hearty ground beef gets layered with creamy noodles and melty cheddar for a meal that brings everyone to the table fast. I reach for this recipe when I want something that reminds me of growing up and always makes leftovers worth looking forward to.

On the first snowy day of the season I whipped this up for friends after sledding and there was not a single bite left The creamy cheesy layers and savory beef sauce are irresistible and still bring back that happy memory every time I make it again

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: Adds rich flavor and keeps the casserole hearty Look for beef with a bit of fat for best taste and texture
• Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth Choose onions that are firm with no green shoots
• Garlic: Fresh cloves infuse more aroma than preminced Save time by using a garlic press
• Tomato sauce: Provides the saucy base and ties everything together Use a good quality sauce with no added sugar if possible
• Italian seasoning: Offers bright herbal notes A fresh dried blend keeps the flavor bold
• Egg noodles: Classic texture and perfect chew Opt for wide egg noodles and boil just until tender to avoid mushiness
• Sour cream: Delivers creamy tang and helps bind the noodles Full fat sour cream gives the best result
• Cottage cheese: Boosts protein and gives creaminess without being heavy Use small curd for smoother texture
• Cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for gooey cheesy goodness Sharp cheddar is my favorite for the most punch
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Bring all the flavors together Taste as you go and season each layer for best results

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and coat a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup

Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium high heat cook the ground beef and chopped onion for about ten minutes Break up the meat with a spoon and let the onion get soft and golden Stir in the garlic and cook just one minute longer You want the garlic fragrant but not burnt

Simmer the Sauce:

Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning Stir everything really well Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for five minutes This thickens the sauce and lets the flavors blend Season with salt and pepper then remove from the heat

Cook the Noodles:

While your sauce simmers bring a big pot of water to a boil Add a generous amount of salt then toss in the egg noodles Cook according to package directions until they are just al dente Drain immediately to avoid overcooking since they will bake more in the oven

Mix the Dairy with Noodles:

In a big mixing bowl combine the sour cream and cottage cheese Mix until combined before adding the drained noodles Give it a good stir and sprinkle in salt and pepper Taste to make sure you have the right amount of tang and seasoning

Layer the Casserole:

Spread half the creamy noodles into the bottom of the prepared dish Top with half the meat sauce making sure to spoon it evenly Repeat with the rest of the noodles and the rest of the sauce making beautiful layers

Top with Cheese and Bake:

Scatter the grated cheddar evenly all over the top for that perfect cheesy crust Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for thirty minutes The cheese will bubble and brown just a little

Cool and Serve:

Let the dish rest out of the oven for ten minutes before cutting This makes for clean slices and lets everything meld Serve hot and enjoy every bite

My favorite part is using extra sharp cheddar because it adds so much bite against the creamy noodles My grandma always had this casserole bubbling away for Sunday dinner and the smell alone makes me feel right at home

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they will stay delicious for up to four days For freezer storage wrap tightly in plastic and foil then freeze for up to two months Defrost in the refrigerator overnight then bake until hot again

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter flavor For extra veggies stir in chopped spinach or roasted red peppers Cream cheese can step in for cottage cheese if needed and any melty cheese you have such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella works on top

Serving Suggestions

Pair each serving with a crisp side salad or buttery green beans For a heartier meal serve with garlic bread or roasted broccoli This casserole stands alone but also makes great leftovers tucked into wraps for lunch

Cultural History

Beef noodle casseroles became popular in American kitchens during the nineteen fifties as an easy all in one meal The addition of sour cream and cottage cheese reflects midwest comfort flavors passed down over generations This dish speaks to potluck tradition and the joy of sharing food with loved ones

Seasonal Adaptations

Add steamed peas or roasted carrots in winter for extra vegetables Toss in fresh spring herbs like chives or dill for a lighter taste In summer serve with garden tomatoes and cucumbers on the side

This casserole is a family classic that always brings comfort and warmth. Serve it piping hot and enjoy easy leftovers the next day.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef to create a lighter flavor while maintaining a similar texture in the dish.

→ What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are recommended for their tender bite and ability to absorb the creamy sauce, but other pasta shapes may be used if desired.

→ Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for convenient meal planning.

→ Can this casserole be frozen?

Yes, cool the unbaked casserole, wrap well, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking until heated through.

→ Are there substitutions for cottage cheese?

Ricotta cheese offers a great alternative to cottage cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.