Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that brings comfort and ease together perfectly, you’ve got to try this Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe. It’s a deliciously hearty casserole where tender ground beef and Italian sausage mingle with creamy sour cream and luscious noodles, all baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. The combination of savory meat sauce, smooth sour cream, and melty cheese creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in bringing the Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe to life. From the rich ground beef and fragrant Italian sausage to the creamy sour cream and cheesy topping, every element contributes to the ultimate comfort food experience.

• ½ pound lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base for the meat sauce.
• ½ pound mild Italian pork sausage: Adds juicy flavor depth and a hint of spice without overpowering.
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced: Offers sweet, tender bites that balance the richness of the meats.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates every other ingredient.
• 2 cups tomato sauce: Gives the dish a tangy, vibrant foundation, whether homemade or store-bought.
• 1 (12-ounce) bag wide egg noodles: The perfect starchy vehicle to soak up all that creamy, meaty goodness.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess that makes this bake uniquely smooth and rich.
• ½ cup green onion, chopped: Injects fresh, mild bite and a lovely pop of color.
• 1 ¼ cups small curd cottage cheese (optional): Whipped for extra silkiness and protein boost.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herb flavors that brighten the overall dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Seasonings that amplify the savory notes subtly and perfectly.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: These melting cheeses blanket the casserole with gooey, flavorful finish.
• Optional red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese: For those who love a little spicy kick and a sprinkling of salty Parmesan at serving.

How to Make Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Shred your cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and mix them together in a bowl – this combo will melt beautifully over your bake.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until the meat loses its pink color and is nicely browned. Drain the excess fat by placing the cooked meat on paper towels to keep the bake from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add your diced onion and cook it gently until it turns soft and translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook just for another minute, releasing its fragrant aroma without burning.

Step 4: Create the Meat Sauce

Bring the cooked beef and sausage back into the skillet with your softened onions. Stir in the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer softly over low heat. If you enjoy a bit of heat, this is the moment to toss in some red pepper flakes. If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will loosen it up perfectly.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Boil your egg noodles in salted water, cooking them just until al dente – be sure to take them off the heat about one minute sooner than package directions to keep a firm bite. Drain and set aside so they’re ready to mix in with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Whip Cottage Cheese (Optional)

For a smoother texture, pulse your cottage cheese in a food processor for 1 to 2 minutes until creamy. This step is optional but really enhances the lusciousness of the casserole.

Step 7: Make the Sour Cream Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, whipped or regular cottage cheese, chopped green onions, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended, then pour this velvety mixture over your cooked noodles, tossing gently to coat each strand.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Layer half of the sour cream-coated noodles in your baking dish. Spoon half of the savory meat sauce over the noodles, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese mixture on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, and feel free to dust a little extra black pepper on top for a final touch.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly cheese and a beautifully golden crust that signals it’s ready to dive into.

How to Serve Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or extra chopped green onions add a lovely burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top just before serving. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of indulgent flavor, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your guests the option to spice things up.

Side Dishes

This beef and sour cream noodle bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans bring freshness and crunch to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this noodle bake in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for cozy personal portions. You can also sprinkle the top with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions before baking to add a contrasting crunch. For a potluck or family-style dinner, bring the whole casserole right to the table and let everyone dig in with sturdy spatulas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through and cheesy goodness is restored.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to save some for later. Freeze in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual servings gently in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered in foil in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and bubbly. A splash of milk or reserved pasta water stirred in before reheating helps keep the noodles moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and sausage?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well and provides a leaner option. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to keep the flavors bold and satisfying.

Is the cottage cheese necessary for this Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe?

No, the cottage cheese is optional. It adds extra creaminess and protein, especially when whipped till smooth, but the sour cream and cheese alone make the dish deliciously rich.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What type of noodles works best?

Wide egg noodles are ideal because they hold up well and soak in the creaminess, but penne or elbow macaroni are excellent alternatives if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes into the meat sauce or topping the bake with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before serving will give it a nice kick without overpowering the overall flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Its flavorful layers and creamy textures make it perfect for sharing with family or friends on any occasion. I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do because once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite go-to comfort meal in your home too.

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