The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a hearty, comforting casserole that combines tender noodles, savory ground beef, creamy sour cream, and melty cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks, offering a rich and flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to prepare this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Drain any excess grease and stir in the marinara or tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the creamy mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the bake: Layer half of the cooked egg noodles into the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is an ideal comfort food for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, loaded with layers of creamy, cheesy goodness, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
Tips for Success
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh sour cream for the best flavor.
- Cook noodles al dente: Slightly undercook the noodles to ensure they don’t become mushy after baking.
- Mix it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice or swap the cheddar for mozzarella for a gooier topping.
Creative Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or shredded carrots to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
- Different Noodles: Try using penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles.
- Cheese Lovers: Add layers of mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Can I freeze the Sour Cream Noodle Bake?
- Absolutely! Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.