Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the epitome of classic comfort food—a rich, hearty, and satisfying dish made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato and sour cream sauce. Baked to golden perfection with a layer of melted cheese on top, this casserole brings warmth and flavor to every bite. It’s one of those nostalgic recipes that feels like a warm hug straight from the oven.

Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, this beef noodle casserole is both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. The sour cream adds a luscious creaminess that balances the tang of tomato sauce and richness of ground beef, while the noodles offer the perfect tender base. With minimal prep and easy ingredients, it’s a reliable weeknight winner that you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and comforting

• A wholesome, filling meal packed with protein, carbs, and creamy goodness
• Perfect for cozy nights, potlucks, or family-style dining

Creamy and savory flavor

• Tangy sour cream balances savory beef and sweet tomato sauce
• Cheese topping adds a delicious golden crust and melty texture

Budget-friendly and simple

• Uses pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes
• Great for feeding a family or serving a crowd without breaking the bank

Make-ahead and freezer-friendly

• Prepare in advance and bake when ready
• Casserole holds up beautifully when frozen and reheated

Customizable and versatile

• Add vegetables, swap proteins, or change pasta types to suit your taste
• Easily adjusted for dietary needs or preferences

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Serving Size: 1½ cups

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 490
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz egg noodles or pasta of choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground chicken or turkey)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1½ cups sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Optional: extra parsley or green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
• Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente
• Drain and set aside

2. Prepare the beef mixture

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat
• Add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft
• Stir in garlic and cook for another minute
• Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks
• Drain excess fat if necessary

3. Add tomato sauce

• Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
• Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

4. Prepare the creamy layer

• In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley
• Mix until smooth and well blended

5. Assemble the casserole

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked noodles
• Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles
• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the creamy layer
• Repeat layers: noodles, creamy mixture, and beef
• Top with shredded cheese evenly

6. Bake the casserole

• Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes
• Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned

7. Garnish and serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for added freshness

Ingredient Background

Egg noodles

• A classic base that offers a soft, tender texture perfect for creamy casseroles
• Can be swapped with penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta if desired

Ground beef

• Provides hearty, savory flavor and protein
• Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives

Sour cream

• Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the tomato-based sauce
• Also keeps the casserole moist and rich without being heavy

Cottage cheese

• Offers a creamy, mild texture and adds protein
• Can be replaced with ricotta or cream cheese for a richer texture

Tomato sauce and paste

• Brings depth and richness to the beef layer
• Tomato paste intensifies flavor without adding extra liquid

Technique Tips

• Don’t overcook noodles—they’ll finish cooking in the oven
• Drain beef well to prevent a greasy casserole
• Mix sour cream and cheese while noodles are hot for a smoother texture
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor
• Cover with foil initially to avoid over-browning the cheese topping
• Let casserole sit after baking to help it set for clean slices

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bake in individual ramekins for personalized servings
• Layer in a round ceramic dish for rustic table appeal
• Top with buttered breadcrumbs for added crunch and texture
• Add a swirl of sour cream on top after baking for presentation
• Sprinkle paprika or chopped herbs on top before serving for color

Additional Tips for Success

• Make it ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
• Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef layer for extra veggies
• Swap cheeses for variety—try gouda, Monterey jack, or provolone
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein-rich alternative
• Bake covered for creamier texture, uncovered for a crispier topping
• Adjust salt carefully if using salted tomato sauce or cheese

Recipe Variations

• Mexican-style casserole: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn; top with pepper jack cheese
• Mushroom beef casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh thyme to the beef layer
• Vegetarian version: Replace beef with lentils, tofu crumbles, or plant-based meat
• Cream cheese twist: Use cream cheese instead of cottage cheese for a richer, tangier flavor
• Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta and check all other ingredients for compatibility

Freezing and Storage

Storing

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through
• Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore moisture

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked or baked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 2 months
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating
• Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken for lower fat content
• Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber
• Swap cottage cheese for low-fat ricotta or Greek yogurt
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or peas
• Use reduced-fat cheese and light sour cream for a lighter dish
• Portion control using ramekins or small baking dishes

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Perfect for casual family dinners or potluck gatherings
• Pair with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread for a complete meal
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
• Include on a comfort food buffet with mashed potatoes, rolls, and soup
• Add to a weeknight meal prep rotation—easy to reheat and portion
• Bake in disposable pans for gifting or meal trains

Special Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil for baking

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole without sour cream?

• Yes. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar texture and taste.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti can be used depending on preference.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

• Yes. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

4. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

• Keep it covered during the first part of baking and don’t overbake.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?

• Yes. Use plant-based sour cream and cheese substitutes, and check other ingredient labels.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F with a splash of milk or broth, or microwave individual portions.

7. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

• Definitely. Freeze before or after baking, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.

8. Can I add vegetables?

• Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and peas make great additions to the beef layer.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is everything comfort food should be—rich, creamy, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. With its savory beef and tomato base, luscious sour cream layer, and cheesy topping, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, hearty dinner, this dish never disappoints.

Adaptable, affordable, and full of flavor, this classic casserole is a staple you’ll want to make again and again. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation—perfect for any night of the week or special occasion.

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