If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender egg noodles wrapped in a creamy blend of sour cream and cheeses, layered with a rich, savory ground beef and tomato sauce, baked until bubbly and golden on top. It’s a perfect blend of tangy, cheesy, and meaty flavors that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to share with friends and family. Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to casserole for cozy nights and happy tummies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe uses straightforward, kitchen-friendly ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays its own role, from the creamy cheeses giving richness to the smoked paprika adding a subtle smoky warmth.
- 12 oz. uncooked egg noodles: Choose egg noodles for their perfect softness and ability to soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb. ground beef: The hearty base providing savory depth and satisfying protein.
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and aromatic flavor complexity.
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce: Provides a smooth tomato foundation that ties the sauce together.
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds texture and fresh acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Lends umami richness and depth to the meat sauce.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smoky note that elevates the overall flavor.
- Red pepper flakes to taste: A gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
- 8 oz. sour cream: The star ingredient for that luscious, tangy creaminess.
- 8 oz. small curd cottage cheese: Adds a delicate texture and mild creaminess to the sauce layer.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Brings a nutty, salty bite to the mix.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts to golden perfection, creating a stretchy, flavorful topping.
- Fresh parsley to garnish: Adds a pop of fresh color and brightness upon serving.
How to Make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the noodles
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your egg noodles until just al dente, which means they still have a tender bite. This is important to avoid mushy noodles once baked. Rinse them under cold water briefly to stop cooking, drain well, and then toss with a splash of olive oil so they don’t stick together later.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Let it brown nicely to develop rich flavor, and once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat. This ensures your casserole won’t feel greasy but remains flavorful.
Step 3: Sauté onion and garlic
To that browned beef, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This builds the savory base for the sauce layer.
Step 4: Prepare the meat sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly into a rich, hearty layer.
Step 5: Mix creamy cheese sauce with noodles
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, small curd cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked egg noodles. Mix until every noodle is coated in that luscious creamy cheese blend. This is the comforting heart of the casserole you’ll love.
Step 6: Assemble the casserole
Grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and start layering. Spoon half of the creamy noodle mixture into the bottom. Then add half of the savory meat sauce on top, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, and cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy—finish with an extra sprinkle of cheddar on top for that perfect golden crust.
Step 7: Bake the casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and delightfully browned at the edges. The aromas filling your kitchen will let you know your patience is about to pay off.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, dig in, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience of this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just pretty—it brightens the rich flavors of the casserole. You can also try a little extra shredded cheddar or a pinch of smoked paprika sprinkled on top right before serving for an extra visual and flavor punch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables adds a nice contrast of freshness and crunch. Roasted broccoli or green beans work beautifully to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake the casserole in muffin tins for perfect personal-sized servings. This makes it fun for gatherings and easy to portion out leftovers later.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will maintain great flavor and texture for up to 3 days, perfect for quick reheats on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire casserole either before baking or after it’s baked and cooled. Use an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the noodles tender. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely to avoid drying out the top.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground beef alternative. The sauce and cheesy layers still deliver plenty of flavor and creamy goodness.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar and Parmesan are key to the flavor profile here. Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness, while Parmesan brings a nutty salty edge. However, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different textures.
Can I use different noodles?
Egg noodles work wonderfully because they hold the sauce well and stay tender. But you can swap for penne, rotini, or even macaroni if you prefer. Just watch the cooking time to avoid overcooked pasta.
How spicy is this casserole?
The red pepper flakes add only a gentle heat. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Is sour cream necessary in the recipe?
Sour cream is what gives this casserole its signature tangy creaminess and balance. You can substitute with Greek yogurt in a pinch, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe brings together familiar, comforting ingredients in a way that feels fresh and inviting. It’s straightforward to make yet delivers big on flavor, making it a favorite you’ll come back to again and again. I truly hope you enjoy every cheesy, tangy, savory bite and that it becomes one of your cherished go-to dishes for family dinners or casual celebrations.
Print
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole featuring tender egg noodles, savory ground beef tomato sauce, and a rich blend of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz. uncooked egg noodles
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz. sour cream
- 8 oz. small curd cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Garnish
- Fresh parsley to garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Rinse in cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well. Toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking up any clumps. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef in the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Prepare the meat sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Mix creamy cheese sauce with noodles: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked egg noodles. Mix until noodles are evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Spoon half of the creamy pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Top with half of the meat sauce mixture and sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining creamy pasta, meat sauce, and cheddar cheese. Finish with an additional layer of cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your comforting Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole!
Notes
- Drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef to reduce grease in the casserole.
- Rinsing noodles after cooking preserves their texture and prevents overcooking in the casserole.
- Add red pepper flakes gradually to adjust spice level to your preference.
- Use freshly shredded cheeses for better melting and flavor.
- If desired, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
