Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Quick Benefits

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. This dish is packed with flavor and offers several benefits:

• Quick and easy to make – minimal prep work required
• Rich and creamy texture – a delicious blend of sour cream, cottage cheese, and beef
• Great for meal prep – makes excellent leftovers or a freezer-friendly option
• Customizable – easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• Base Ingredients:
  • 12 oz. uncooked egg noodles
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
• Sauce & Seasoning:
  • 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Red pepper flakes (to taste)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Dairy & Cheese:
  • 8 oz. sour cream
  • 8 oz. small curd cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Egg Noodles

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Beef Mixture

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
• Drain excess fat.
• Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
• Stir in tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked egg noodles.
• Mix well to coat the noodles evenly.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the creamy noodle mixture.
• Add half of the beef mixture and top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
• Finish with a final layer of cheddar cheese on top.

5. Bake and Serve

• Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Health Benefits

While this is a comforting dish, it offers some nutritional benefits:

• Protein-rich – Ground beef and cheese provide ample protein for muscle support.
• Calcium boost – Cottage cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese contribute to bone health.
• Customizable for better nutrition – Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your meal with these sides:

• Simple Green Salad – Adds freshness to balance the creamy richness.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables – A healthy addition for more fiber and nutrients.

Creative Variations

Customize this recipe with these fun variations:

• Use Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives instead of beef.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for an extra gooey texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 45 minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in portions.

Pro Tips

• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking – helps flavors meld.
• Use full-fat sour cream and cottage cheese for the best creamy texture.
• Double the recipe and freeze one batch for a future meal.
• For a crispy top layer, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
A: Ricotta cheese works well as an alternative.

Q: Can I make this without noodles?
A: Yes! Try using spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Enjoy this comforting and creamy Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole with family and friends!

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