Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole: A Comforting Classic

Sour cream beef noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a rich and creamy dish packed with tender egg noodles, flavorful ground beef, and a tangy, cheesy topping. This easy-to-make, satisfying meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, and potlucks. If you’re looking for a recipe that combines simplicity with delicious flavors, this sour cream beef noodle casserole will become a staple in your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best sour cream beef noodle casserole, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, expert tips, and storage methods. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof!

What is Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole?

Sour cream beef noodle casserole is a layered pasta bake that features egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, a creamy sour cream and cream cheese mixture, and a cheesy, golden-brown topping. It’s a well-loved dish that dates back to traditional American casseroles, making it a nostalgic meal that’s as filling as it is comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Simple, everyday ingredients come together quickly.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family meals and gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep and store it for later baking.
• Customizable: Adapt it with different proteins, cheeses, or add-ins.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a batch and freeze for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

For the Casserole Base:

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes, stirring well.
5. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer

1. In a medium bowl, mix sour cream, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly in the dish.
4. Layer with half of the creamy sour cream mixture.
5. Add half of the beef mixture on top.
6. Repeat layers with remaining noodles, creamy mixture, and beef.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a well-balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
• Enjoy with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

Variations of Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

1. Spicy Version

• Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.

2. Vegetarian Version

• Replace ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu.
• Use vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for a lighter option.

3. Low-Carb Version

• Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Reduce tomato sauce and add extra veggies.

4. Extra Cheesy Version

• Add an extra layer of ricotta cheese between the noodle and beef layers.
• Mix more cheese into the sour cream mixture.

Tips for the Best Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

• Use full-fat sour cream and cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking to help the layers set.
• Double the recipe and freeze one batch for a quick future meal.
• Try different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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 freeze sour cream beef noodle casserole?

Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes! Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

5. What can I substitute for egg noodles?

Penne, rotini, or any short pasta works well as an alternative.

Conclusion

Sour cream beef noodle casserole is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With layers of tender noodles, savory beef, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping, freezing, and feeding a crowd. Try this delicious casserole recipe today and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table!

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