Name: Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 15 oz tomato sauce; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup cottage cheese; 8 oz egg noodles; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it involves creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory ground beef. I’ve been making this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole for years, and it always disappears quickly at the dinner table. It’s one of those go-to dishes that you can throw together without a lot of fuss, but the flavor payoff is huge.

What I love about this recipe is how it brings together simple pantry staples and turns them into a warm, filling meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. The sour cream adds a creamy tang that perfectly balances the richness of the beef and cheese, while the curly noodles grab all that delicious sauce in the best way. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a dose of nostalgia with your dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

This dish is everything comfort food should be: creamy, beefy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying. It comes together with minimal prep, making it perfect for weeknights or meal prep. You can customize it based on what you have on hand, and it’s one of those meals that gets better the next day. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and just downright cozy.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use?

For Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole, I usually go with wide egg noodles or mafaldine pasta—something that has a good surface area and curls to soak up that creamy sauce. Egg noodles give the dish a soft, tender texture and hold up well in baking without becoming mushy. However, you’re not locked into just one type. Rotini, fusilli, or even penne can work in a pinch, though I find the curly or wavy shapes add the most satisfying bite.

The important thing is to use pasta that can trap the creamy, meaty sauce—flat or straight noodles tend to let all that goodness slide off. And always cook the noodles al dente since they’ll continue to cook a bit in the oven.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t worry if you don’t have every ingredient on hand. This casserole is incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt:

Ground turkey or chicken: A leaner alternative to beef if you’re watching fat content.
Greek yogurt: Can be used in place of sour cream for a protein boost and a slightly tangier flavor.
Cream cheese: For a richer, more decadent twist, swap half the sour cream with softened cream cheese.
Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground “meat” or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a meatless option.
Dairy-free: Choose a dairy-free sour cream alternative and a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding lactose.
Spicy kick: Add diced green chiles or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

This is the kind of recipe that loves creativity and handles substitutions like a champ.

Ingredients for This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in building comfort and flavor. Here’s a look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

Ground beef – The heart of the dish. Rich, savory, and filling. Choose 80/20 for a nice balance of flavor and fat.
Yellow onion – Adds depth and a gentle sweetness when sautéed with the beef.
Garlic – A flavor booster that makes everything smell and taste better.
Tomato sauce – Brings acidity and helps bind the beef together into a cohesive, saucy layer.
Sour cream – The creamy star. It adds tang, richness, and that classic casserole flavor.
Cottage cheese – Blends into the sauce for added body and creaminess without overwhelming the flavor.
Egg noodles – Perfectly absorbent and soft, they hold the sauce and create that nostalgic texture.
Sharp cheddar cheese – Melts into a gooey, golden topping and adds a bold cheesy bite.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer.
Chopped fresh parsley – For a little color and freshness at the end.

These pantry-friendly ingredients combine into something far greater than the sum of their parts—truly a casserole worth craving.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Once it begins to brown, toss in the diced onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent—about 7–8 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Stir in Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in the tomato sauce, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors have a chance to mingle and deepen. This becomes the rich, savory base of your casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Layer

In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Stir well until smooth. If you’d like, add a pinch of salt and pepper here too. This creamy layer adds a tangy, luscious bite between the meat and the noodles.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

While the meat mixture is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until just al dente—about 1–2 minutes less than the package suggests. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook, since they’ll bake more in the oven.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by layering half the noodles, then spread on half the creamy mixture, followed by half the beef sauce. Repeat with the remaining noodles, cream layer, and beef sauce. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so the layers set.

How Long to Cook Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

This casserole needs a total of 30 to 35 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Start with 20 minutes covered with foil to keep the moisture in and help everything heat evenly. Then uncover and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and develop that irresistible golden-bubbly top.

If you’ve prepped it ahead and are baking straight from the fridge, add an extra 10–15 minutes to your bake time and keep it covered a bit longer before uncovering.

Tips for Perfect Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Use al dente noodles: Slightly undercooked pasta prevents a mushy texture after baking. They’ll finish cooking in the oven while absorbing all the flavors.
Drain excess grease: After browning the beef, always drain the fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Layer evenly: Try to distribute the creamy and beef layers evenly so every bite has a good balance of richness, tang, and savoriness.
Cheese choice matters: Sharp cheddar adds the best punch, but a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can give you the perfect combo of melt and flavor.
Let it rest: Give the casserole 5–10 minutes to sit after baking so it sets up and cuts more cleanly.
Customize with veggies: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even the most forgiving casseroles can go sideways if you’re not careful. Keep an eye out for these common missteps:

Overcooking the noodles: This is a big one. Remember, they’ll cook more in the oven, so boil them just until al dente.
Skipping the drain step: Don’t forget to drain excess grease from the beef. Leaving it in can make your casserole greasy and heavy.
Under-seasoning: Each component should be seasoned. Taste your beef sauce and your creamy layer before assembling. A bland casserole is hard to fix after baking.
Using low-fat dairy across the board: While substitutions are fine, using only low-fat versions can leave the casserole tasting flat or watery.
Not covering during the first bake: Skipping the foil can dry out the top before the interior has time to warm through properly.
Rushing the rest time: Cutting into the casserole too soon after baking can cause the layers to slide apart. Give it a few minutes to set.

What to Serve With Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole?

This casserole is rich and hearty on its own, but pairing it with a lighter side can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great ideas:

Garden Salad

A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole.

Roasted Broccoli

Crispy, caramelized broccoli with a touch of garlic or lemon adds a savory balance to each bite.

Garlic Bread

Because every casserole deserves bread to mop up the sauce. Crispy edges, buttery middle—it’s a no-brainer.

Pickled Vegetables

Sharp and vinegary pickles or pickled red onions can brighten the plate and add a little crunch.

Glazed Carrots

Slightly sweet and tender, they bring a gentle contrast to the savory depth of the beef.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze make a colorful, fresh pairing.

Lemon Asparagus

A lightly sautéed side with a hit of citrus helps lighten up the plate and add a springy note.

Storage Instructions

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is just as good the next day—maybe even better. Here’s how to store it:

In the fridge: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
In the freezer: This dish freezes like a dream. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, keep it covered and bake at 350°F for 1 hour, then uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Reheat tip: Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general breakdown for one serving (based on 8 servings total). Exact values may vary depending on brands and substitutions used:

Calories: ~420
Protein: 23g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: ~650mg
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 18% DV

This dish is hearty and satisfying, delivering a good mix of protein and carbs with creamy comfort in every forkful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover it with foil during the first part of baking to lock in moisture. Also, don’t overcook your noodles beforehand—they’ll soak up liquid as they bake.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving, adding 10–15 extra minutes since it’s starting cold.

Is there a way to make this low-carb?

Yes, substitute the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or cooked spaghetti squash. The texture will be different but still satisfying.

Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes! After baking, let the casserole cool, then slice into portions and freeze each one separately in airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave or oven as needed.

What’s a good substitute for cottage cheese?

Ricotta cheese is a great stand-in. It’s creamier and slightly sweeter but blends beautifully with the sour cream.

Do I need to use sharp cheddar?

No, but sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor. Mild cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend all melt well if you prefer something softer in taste.

Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Definitely. Try sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach mixed into the beef layer for added texture and nutrients.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Oven is best: cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. For quick reheating, microwave on medium power with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the kind of dish that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, homey, and effortlessly delicious—an easy dinner that feeds a crowd and satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping meals ahead of time, or just looking for something comforting after a long day, this casserole has your back. With its rich meat sauce, creamy filling, and golden cheesy top, it’s sure to be a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.