When it comes to heartwarming comfort food, few dishes can compete with a Sour Cream Noodle Bake. This rich and creamy casserole combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, tangy sour cream, and melted cheese for a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this recipe delivers the kind of home-cooked flavor that warms you from the inside out. It’s a beloved classic that brings together the richness of a creamy pasta and the depth of a baked casserole — all in one dish.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Noodles:
- 12 ounces (340g) egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta for a smoother texture)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add egg noodles and cook until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Noodles
- In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and parsley.
- Add the cooked noodles to the cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture, then half of the meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers and top with extra cheddar cheese for a golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Step 6: Serve
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days — it tastes even better reheated!
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 portion) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 24 grams |
| Total Fat | 21 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 640 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Egg noodles provide satisfying carbohydrates and protein.
- Sour cream and cottage cheese offer creamy richness and calcium.
- Ground beef adds protein and iron for sustained energy.
- For a lighter option, use lean ground turkey and low-fat dairy products.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Avoid overcooking the noodles — they’ll soften more while baking.
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing to help it hold its shape.
- Mix in chopped spinach or zucchini for added veggies and nutrients.
- Substitute half the tomato sauce with diced tomatoes for extra texture.
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn to the meat sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and lentils.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix mozzarella into the top layer for a stretchier texture.
The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings classic flavors to your dinner table. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with hearty meat sauce, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special family gatherings.
This timeless recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary comfort — one forkful at a time.