Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a delightful comfort food that combines tender egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and savory ground beef into a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Its layers of flavor and creamy texture make it a wonderful alternative to traditional casseroles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake combines simplicity with heartiness, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The blend of cottage cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese creates a rich, creamy filling that beautifully complements the savory ground beef and vibrant tomato sauce. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy cooks who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this noodle bake will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Introduction:
Comfort food is universal; it evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a fantastic recipe that checks all the boxes. With its layered textures and rich flavors, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together. Each bite delivers a mouthful of creamy noodles topped with a robust meat sauce, making it deeply satisfying. In a world where everyone is busy, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and deliciousness. You can prepare this dish ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy your company when it’s time to eat.
Ingredients:
For the Sauce Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, 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
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy serving and cleaning later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced sweet onion. Use a spatula to break the ground beef into smaller crumbles. Cook this mixture for about 8-10 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink, and the onions have softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Sauce
Once the beef and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it in briefly until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then, incorporate the tomato sauce along with the salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, turn the heat down to low, and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
While the sauce is simmering away, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles, returning them to the pot.
Step 5: Combine and Layer
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed. Now, it’s time to assemble the bake. Start by placing half of the noodle mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, spoon half of the meat sauce on top, followed by half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Repeat with the remaining noodles, sauce, and cheese on top.
Final Steps: Bake and Serve
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until everything is warmed through, and the cheese has melted. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
COOKING Note:
For a little extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. This is an adaptable recipe, so feel free to modify it according to your taste preferences!
Serving Suggestions:
This noodle bake pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- Make sure to fully drain the egg noodles to avoid excess water in the dish.
- You can prepare this dish a day in advance; simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving.
- If you prefer a little crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the cheese before baking.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 750mg
Conclusion:
Sour Cream Noodle Bake is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. Its rich taste and creamy texture guarantee satisfaction for all. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, offering flavors that are both familiar and heartwarming. Whether served as the main dish or a hearty side, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
FAQs About This Recipe:
- Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to bake it longer if it’s taken straight from the fridge. - What can I serve with Sour Cream Noodle Bake?
A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are great accompaniments to this dish. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again. - Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils, and use a plant-based sour cream and cottage cheese for a vegetarian option.
