Sour Cream Noodle Bak

A classic, comforting casserole made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, creamy sour cream, and plenty of melted cheese. This easy baked dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef

1 small sweet onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Noodles

8 oz egg noodles

Water and salt for boiling

For the Creamy Layer

1 cup sour cream

1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)

½ cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping

1½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-mozzarella blend)

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Cook the Noodles

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

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Make the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the cooked noodles in the prepared baking dish.

Top with half of the creamy mixture.

Spoon half of the meat sauce over the top.

Repeat layers with remaining noodles, cream mixture, and meat sauce.

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.

 

6. Bake

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Rest & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

 

Tips & Variations

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor.

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

This dish freezes well—perfect for meal prep!