Have you ever craved a dish that combines hearty flavors and creamy textures? Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a delightful choice that satisfies both comfort and taste. This dish features tender beef, rich sour cream, and perfectly cooked noodles that blend together in a warm embrace of flavor.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory beef fills your kitchen. This casserole is ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare. Get ready to experience layers of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Simple Preparation: This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps. With ingredients you likely already have at home, you can whip up this dish in no time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when unexpected guests arrive.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of ground beef, creamy sour cream, and cheesy goodness creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that evoke feelings of home-cooked bliss.
Great for Meal Prep: This casserole is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for busy days ahead. Just reheat portions throughout the week for quick meals without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize your casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you prefer mushrooms or bell peppers, this dish welcomes adaptations to suit your taste buds while maintaining its delicious essence.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides great flavor without excess grease.
- Egg Noodles: Choose wide egg noodles as they hold up well in casseroles and absorb the flavors beautifully.
- Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream adds richness and enhances the overall creaminess of the dish.
- Onion: Freshly chopped onion gives an aromatic base to the casserole; sauté it until translucent for best results.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings gooeyness and a sharp contrast to the creamy elements.
For seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: Enhances flavor depth; use it generously for a robust taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
Cook the Noodles: Boil water in a large pot and cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef along with chopped onions. Cook until browned thoroughly, breaking up meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, sautéed beef mixture, sour cream, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well coated.
Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top evenly. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and serve warm with fresh herbs or salad on the side for a complete meal!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Don’t Overcook Noodles: Under-cooking your noodles slightly prevents them from becoming mushy after baking in the casserole.
Add Extra Veggies: Consider incorporating spinach or peas into your mixture for added nutrition and color.
Use Leftover Meat: If you have leftover roast or steak at home, chop it up as an excellent substitute for ground beef.
Cover While Baking: If your casserole browns too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with foil until it’s done cooking through.
With these tips in mind, you’re set up for success! Enjoy making this comforting Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole!
FAQs
What can I substitute for sour cream in the casserole?
If you want to replace sour cream in this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Both options provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while also adding extra protein. Just make sure to use full-fat versions for better results.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly with foil after preparation and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated thoroughly throughout.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until bubbly.
What protein alternatives can I use?
You can easily customize this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These leaner proteins will still provide great flavor and pair well with the creamy sauce and noodles. Adjust seasonings accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory ground beef, creamy sour cream, and tender egg noodles in a dish that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this casserole delivers layers of cheesy goodness and hearty flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Its easy preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and the ability to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices ensures it suits every palate. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated as leftovers throughout the week, this delightful Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is sure to become a cherished family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions until fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, beef mixture, sour cream, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Transfer to the greased baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 396
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 78mg
