If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is absolutely going to become one of your go-to family favorites. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with rich flavor and tender noodles, this dish masterfully combines tangy sour cream with savory ground beef and melty cheese for a casserole that’s satisfying and simply irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a role – from the tender egg noodles providing a comforting base to the creamy sour cream and cottage cheese marrying with the savory beef and vibrant marinara sauce. Let’s break down the essentials you’ll need:
- 12 ounces egg noodles: These noodles have the perfect bite and hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1½ cups sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that makes the dish luscious.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Brings a subtle tang and light texture to balance the sour cream.
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onion: Fresh, mild onion flavor brightens up the creamy mixture.
- Freshly ground black pepper: A little spice to enhance every bite’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Boosts all the ingredients’ natural tastes.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For gently sautéing the onions and garlic with richness.
- ½ onion, chopped: Sweetness and texture that complement the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic flavor that flavors the whole bake.
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef: Protein-packed and satisfying with just the right fat content for moisture.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: Your favorite jarred or homemade sauce adds savory tomato goodness.
- 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts perfectly for gooey, golden layers.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal garnish to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your egg noodles according to the package instructions until tender. Once cooked, drain the noodles well and return them to the pot. This simple step lays the foundation for the creamy, cheesy layers to come, making sure every noodle holds sauce and flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cottage cheese, chopped chives, and black pepper. Season with salt and onion powder, then gently fold the mixture into your cooked noodles. This creamy blend adds a tangy, silky texture that sets this recipe apart from ordinary noodle casseroles.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. These aromatics form the savory backbone of your sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and brown it thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks. Once cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce, letting all these robust flavors meld together. This rich meat sauce will bring depth and heartiness to your noodle bake.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start layering by spreading half of the creamy noodles on the bottom, topping with half of the ground beef mixture, and sprinkling with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef sauce, and cheese for a luscious finish.
Step 6: Bake the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Bake your assembled casserole for about 20 minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. A quick sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley elevates this dish with a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Now you’re ready to enjoy a soul-satisfying, cheesy feast!
How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a lovely green touch but also brightens each bite with freshness that contrasts perfectly against the creamy, cheesy richness of the bake. For a little extra sparkle, you can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of green onion.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple, crisp sides like a green salad dressed in vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. The fresh, crunchy vegetables provide a delicious balance to the creamy, hearty noodle bake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for personal portions that look charming on the table. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of marinara for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sour Cream Noodle Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making for equally delicious seconds or next-day meals.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout, or microwave single portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a little splash of water or milk before reheating can help maintain creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and perfectly suited for this bake, you can substitute with other pasta types like penne, rotini, or even wide pappardelle to change the texture and presentation.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep that hearty feel, while still enjoying all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free noodles and make sure your marinara sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free. The recipe’s rich flavor profile remains just as delicious.
What cheese works best in the bake?
Provolone and mozzarella are wonderful choices for their meltiness and mild flavor. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a slightly different cheese character.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the noodles and prepare the cream mixture up to a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the meat sauce fresh or reheat if made ahead, then assemble and bake when ready.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that tastes like it took hours of love but comes together so simply, and that is exactly what the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe offers. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced in flavors, it’s a winner every time you bring it to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your new family favorite!
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Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Sour Cream Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles, a creamy sour cream and cottage cheese mixture, savory ground beef in marinara sauce, and melted provolone cheese. It’s an easy, satisfying casserole perfect for weeknight dinners, baked to golden perfection for a warm, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cream Mixture
- 12 ounces egg noodles (1 package)
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onion
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, 1 jar)
Topping
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese or mozzarella, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until tender. Drain well and return them to the pot for the next step.
- Prepare the cream mixture: In a bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, chopped chives, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in salt and onion powder. Add this creamy mixture to the cooked noodles and stir to combine. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Stir in the marinara sauce and mix well to combine.
- Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the creamy noodle mixture on the bottom. Spread half of the ground beef and marinara sauce mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or your favorite melting cheese.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream and cottage cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while cooking.
