Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this sour cream beef noodle casserole will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under an hour.
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Creamy and hearty. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and noodles.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, noodles, and dairy are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 8
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1 lb lean ground beef
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1/2 yellow onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 (15 oz each) cans tomato sauce
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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8 oz egg noodles
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup cottage cheese
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1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use lean ground beef.
Onion and garlic: Add savory flavor.
Tomato sauce: Creates the meat sauce base.
Italian seasoning: Adds herb flavor.
Egg noodles: Use wide egg noodles.
Sour cream and cottage cheese: Add tang and creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Boil the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 5: Mix the Dairy Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream and cottage cheese until blended. Add the warm, drained egg noodles and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat the noodles.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
Transfer half of the creamy noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it evenly with half of the meat sauce. Top with the remaining noodle mixture, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
Step 7: Bake
Top the entire casserole evenly with the grated cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole cool and rest for 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
This creamy, hearty casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Extra Cheese: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use penne or shells.
Make It with Ricotta: Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Spinach: Add fresh spinach.
Make It with Herbs: Add oregano or basil.
Make It with Pepperoni: Add sliced pepperoni.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the noodles until al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven.
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the casserole greasy.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne or shells can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Mozzarella or provolone can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my casserole dry?
There was not enough sauce. Add more tomato sauce.
Why is my casserole runny?
The noodles released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or spinach.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
The Beauty of Creamy Casseroles
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy casserole that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This sour cream beef noodle casserole is a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep noodles, sauce, and dairy in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings