Why You’ll Love Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
This recipe is pure comfort food. The combination of creamy noodles and savory meat sauce creates a satisfying, layered dish that feels both nostalgic and filling.
It’s easy to prepare using simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The layering process is straightforward, making it approachable even for beginner cooks.
It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option. You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
The creamy texture paired with melted cheese on top makes this dish a reliable crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces egg noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
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Stir the tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder into the cooked beef. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.
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In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and sliced green onions. Mix until well combined.
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Add the cooked noodles to the sour cream mixture and stir gently until the noodles are evenly coated.
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Spread half of the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining noodle mixture, then finish with the remaining meat sauce.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 to 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option.
Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Try using mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
For an extra creamy layer, stir a few ounces of softened cream cheese into the sour cream mixture.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat individual servings, microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat a larger portion, cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the center is hot.
This casserole can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the refrigerator.
Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, ricotta can be used in place of cottage cheese for a smoother texture. The flavor will be slightly richer but still delicious.
Do I need to cook the noodles before baking?
Yes, the noodles should be cooked to al dente before assembling the casserole to ensure they are tender after baking.
Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What size baking dish works best?
A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe and allows for even layering.
How do I keep the casserole from becoming dry?
Avoid overbaking and make sure there is enough sauce in each layer. If reheating, covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or even peas can be added to the meat sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
What type of cheese works best on top?
Cheddar is classic and flavorful, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses also melt beautifully.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the center is heated through.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and divide the mixture between two baking dishes to serve a larger group.
Conclusion
Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a simple yet satisfying casserole that combines creamy noodles, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese into one comforting dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family, it’s a dependable recipe that delivers hearty flavor and warm, homemade goodness every time.
