Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Description of this recipe
Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines layers of egg noodles, a savory beef sauce, and a creamy sour cream mixture. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It brings together familiar flavors that evoke a sense of nostalgia while providing a modern twist. The combination of tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and the richness of sour cream creates a dish that is both creamy and savory. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that makes cleanup a breeze, and it can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Introduction

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many households for generations. With its layers of egg noodles, savory meat sauce, and creamy topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious casserole that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the sauce mixture:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, small diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the noodle mixture:

• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: While the meat sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Once the noodles are cooked and drained, add them to the bowl with the sour cream mixture. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated.

Step 6: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture on the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over the noodles, and then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

COOKING Rating:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

Serving Suggestions:

Sour Cream Noodle Bake pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a bit of crunch, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Tips:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Customize your meat: Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: You can sneak in some cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Freeze for later: This dish freezes well. Just wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

40 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 450mg

Conclusion

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. With its straightforward preparation and the ability to customize, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Try it out, and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends!

Questions and Answers:

Q1: Can I make Sour Cream Noodle Bake ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Q2: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A2: Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with other pasta types such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven.

Q4: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A4: Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a meat alternative or sautéed vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces.

Q5: What can I serve with Sour Cream Noodle Bake?
A5: This dish pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a light soup for a complete meal.