Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, there are few dishes that hit the spot quite like a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful casserole. The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is one of those dishes that has quickly become a staple in my family. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy sour cream, cottage cheese, and tender egg noodles all topped with melted Colby Jack cheese creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Whenever I make it, the whole family gathers around the dinner table, and it never lasts long! It’s a simple yet delicious meal that combines familiar ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and homey. This is a great dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a perfect blend of hearty ingredients that come together in one comforting dish. The rich, seasoned beef sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy cottage cheese and sour cream mixture, all nestled between layers of tender egg noodles. What makes this recipe truly irresistible is its balance of flavors and textures—each bite has a delightful combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and soft pasta, all brought together by a layer of gooey melted cheese on top. This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, as it keeps well and can be reheated without losing its flavor or texture. It’s easy to make and will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Sauce Mixture

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Noodle Mixture

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 1 ½ cups small curd cottage cheese
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Break the beef into small crumbles and cook until there is no pink left and the onion has softened, about 8-10 minutes.
   Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Noodles
   While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Noodle Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
5. Assemble the Dish
   Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the cheese mixture and stir until the noodles are coated evenly.
   In the prepared baking dish, place half of the noodle mixture in the bottom.
   Top with half of the beef sauce, and sprinkle half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the sauce.
   Repeat the layering with the remaining noodles, sauce, and cheese.
6. Bake
   Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese has melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm and comforting dish with your favorite side salad or some garlic bread!

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole (about 1 large serving)

• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Sour Cream Noodle Bake with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a balanced meal.
• Pair it with a light salad of mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette to complement the richness of the casserole.
• Enjoy with a slice of garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls for the ultimate comfort meal.
• For a more indulgent side, serve with a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

Additional Tips

1. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
2. Cheese Variation: If you prefer a different cheese, try using mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different twist on the recipe.
3. Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it before baking and bake it when needed.
4. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
5. Use Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, if you don’t have egg noodles, you can substitute them with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni.
2. Can I freeze the Sour Cream Noodle Bake?
   Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! You can skip the ground beef and substitute it with a plant-based meat alternative, or you can simply add more vegetables to the sauce mixture.
4. How long will leftovers last?
   Leftover Sour Cream Noodle Bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
5. Can I use low-fat or fat-free sour cream and cottage cheese?
   Yes, you can use lower-fat versions of sour cream and cottage cheese, but keep in mind that this may affect the creaminess and texture of the dish.
6. What other types of cheese can I use?
   You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese instead of Colby Jack for a different flavor profile.
7. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
   The casserole should be heated through with the cheese fully melted. You can check by inserting a knife in the center to see if it’s hot.
8. Can I make this recipe without garlic or onions?
   Yes, you can leave out the garlic and onions if you prefer a simpler flavor. You can also try substituting with garlic powder or onion powder.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger casserole. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
10. Can I add a topping to this casserole?
    Yes, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top before baking for a crispy, golden finish.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and filling. It’s a dish that brings together the best of hearty pasta, flavorful beef, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to bring to a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds! Try this recipe for your next family meal, and enjoy the deliciousness that will surely become a favorite in your home.

Print