Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the perfect comfort food! Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich sour cream and cottage cheese mixture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this perfect for weeknights.
• Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, flavorful dish with plenty of melty cheese.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
• Kid-Friendly – The whole family will love this delicious casserole.
• Customizable – Swap out ingredients for your own twist!

Tools Needed

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• Large Pot – To cook the egg noodles to perfection.
• Skillet – For browning the ground beef and onions.
• Mixing Bowls – To combine the creamy ingredients.
• 9×13 Baking Dish – The perfect size for baking the casserole.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 (10 oz) can tomato soup (or tomato sauce)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream

For Topping:

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

Directions

1. Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add 2 tsp salt and the egg noodles.
3. Cook according to package instructions (about 6 minutes for al dente).
4. Drain and return to the pot.

2. Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Drain excess grease.
5. Add tomato soup, water, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning.
6. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Make the Creamy Layer

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and sour cream.
2. Stir the mixture into the drained noodles until well coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
3. Spread the creamy noodle mixture evenly in the baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the noodles.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly on top.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole

1. Place in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
3. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

• Use Full-Fat Dairy – Full-fat cottage cheese and sour cream add extra creaminess.
• Salt the Pasta Water – Enhances the flavor of the noodles.
• Shred Your Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Let It Rest – Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Beef Well – Excess grease can make the casserole too oily.
• Skipping the Seasoning – Each layer should be properly seasoned.
• Overcooking the Noodles – They continue cooking in the oven, so keep them al dente.

Variations

• Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
• Swap the Protein – Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add Vegetables – Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Try a Different Cheese – Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for a healthier version.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?
A side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair perfectly with this dish.

4. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Ricotta adds a smooth, creamy texture.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking, then remove for a golden cheese topping.

Conclusion

This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Give it a try and let us know in the comments how it turned out! Happy cooking! 🍽️