The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a cozy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty family dinner. With layers of tender egg noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. This casserole is easy to make, packed with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Sauce Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (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
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the beef is browned and no pink remains, and the onions are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the cooked noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with half of the meat sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodle mixture, meat sauce, and cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, paired with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Cheese: Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
- Enhance the Sauce: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil for extra depth.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of buttery garlic bread for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a wholesome side.
Conclusion
The Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory layers, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Its simple preparation, rich flavors, and universal appeal ensure it will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or enjoying leftovers, this casserole is comfort food at its finest.