Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole (Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting)
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Beef Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or softened cream cheese)
For Topping:
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (tender but still slightly firm).
Drain the noodles well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir well and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the tomato sauce, mix everything together, and let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes so the flavors blend nicely.
3. Make the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese (or cream cheese).
Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer adds richness and balances the savory beef flavor.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish. Then layer the ingredients as follows:
- First layer: half of the cooked noodles
- Second layer: half of the creamy mixture
- Third layer: half of the beef mixture
Repeat the layers one more time with the remaining ingredients.
Finish by spreading the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
6. Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes before serving.
This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve warm and enjoy this rich, creamy, and comforting dish!
Tips & Variations
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use mozzarella or a cheese blend instead of cheddar for a different flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables