If you’re craving a deliciously comforting dinner that brings creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors all in one dish, look no further than this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe. Layered with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef simmered in marinara, and a luscious sour cream and cottage cheese mixture, every bite feels like a warm hug from your favorite casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. Get ready to add an all-time favorite to your recipe collection!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is surprisingly simple, but every single element plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. These ingredients bring together creamy, tangy, cheesy, and hearty notes that make this bake so satisfying.
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles: Their broad shape holds creamy sauce and cheese beautifully, giving this bake its comforting texture.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds a rich, savory flavor and protein that makes this dish hearty and filling.
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion: Gives a natural sweetness and subtle crunch that enhances the meaty beef.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses a fragrant warmth that complements the marinara sauce perfectly.
- 24 ounce jar of marinara sauce: Provides a zesty tomato base to simmer the beef in, ensuring a rich, tangy layer.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided): Seasoning is key to bringing all flavors into harmony.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (divided): Adds a slight spice and depth, balancing rich and creamy elements.
- 1¼ cup 4% small curd cottage cheese: Creates a creamy texture and mild cheesiness that lightens the dish.
- ½ cup sour cream: The star that lends tangy creaminess, keeping the noodles moist and flavorful.
- â…“ cup thinly sliced green onions: Adds freshness and a gentle bite that enlivens the creamy mixture.
- 3 cups shredded cheese (1½ cup mild cheddar, 1½ cup Monterey Jack): A wonderful melty topping with sharpness and smooth melting qualities.
How to Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This will make cleanup easier and prevent the bake from sticking during the gorgeous melted cheese finale.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil and cook the wide egg noodles until they are just al dente—still firm with a slight bite. Overcooking will cause them to fall apart in the bake. Rinse the drained noodles with cold water to stop the cooking and set aside while you prepare the savory beef mixture.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef with Onion and Garlic
In a generously sized skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef along with finely chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently until the beef loses its pink color and the onions soften. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the bake from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings
Return the beef mixture to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and stir in the marinara sauce along with half of your salt and pepper. Heat gently until the mixture just begins to simmer, letting those robust tomato flavors blend beautifully with the beef. Then remove from heat, letting it rest while you prepare the creamy noodle mixture.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Noodle Layer
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, and the remaining salt and pepper. Stir well until fully combined. Then gently fold in your cooked, cooled egg noodles, making sure every noodle is deliciously coated with creamy goodness.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the sour cream and noodle mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top it evenly with half of the ground beef mixture. Sprinkle generously with 2 cups of shredded cheese. Now repeat: layer the remaining sour cream noodles, then the remaining beef, and finish with the last cup of shredded cheese for that irresistible golden topping.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the bake uncovered in the oven and let it cook for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to see the cheese bubbling and turning beautifully melty. This is the moment when all those layers come together, bubbling up through the cheese, promising a slice full of flavor and creamy comfort!
How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or extra green onions add a lovely pop of color and brightness that contrast the richness of the bake. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick if you enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh greens such as a Caesar salad or baby arugula tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. For some crunch and variety, roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans work wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this hearty noodle bake family-style right out of the dish for a cozy, casual vibe. Alternatively, plate individual servings garnished elegantly with herbs and a dollop of sour cream for a dinner party that feels both rustic and refined. Also, try layering this bake in mini gratin dishes for adorable single servings perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making the next-day serving just as delicious. Just cover tightly to maintain moisture and keep the cheese topping from hardening.
Freezing
This noodle bake freezes beautifully! After baking, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the leftovers with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you like a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes. For individual servings, the microwave works well—just keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodles for this bake?
Absolutely! While wide egg noodles hold the sauce and texture beautifully, you can swap in other pasta shapes like penne or rotini in a pinch. Just make sure to cook them al dente to avoid mushy results after baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the amount of mushrooms or add cooked lentils for hearty texture and protein. You might also want to boost the seasoning and marinara sauce to keep the flavor robust.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire bake and refrigerate it uncovered for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative—it has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that blends well with sour cream and noodles.
How do I make the top cheese layer extra golden and bubbly?
Use a blend of cheeses that melt well like cheddar and Monterey Jack, as in this recipe, and bake uncovered. For an extra touch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—just watch carefully to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that brings together cozy comfort and exciting flavors effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a creamy, cheesy meal, it’s an absolute joy to make and eat. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your home as it has become in mine!
Print
Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Sour Cream Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef simmered in marinara sauce, and a creamy mixture of cottage cheese and sour cream, layered with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a hearty and delicious casserole perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 24 ounce jar Marinara Sauce (RAO’s brand recommended)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (divided)
Creamy Sauce Mixture
- 1¼ cup 4% small curd cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- â…“ cup thinly sliced green onions
Cheese Topping
- 3 cups shredded cheese (1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook noodles: Bring water to a low boil in a 5 to 6 quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking and prevent sticking.
- Cook ground beef mixture: Heat a 10 to 12 inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped sweet yellow onion, and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the beef is no longer pink and onions are softened.
- Drain excess fat: Carefully drain any excess oil from the cooked ground beef mixture to reduce greasiness.
- Simmer sauce with beef: Return the beef mixture to the skillet, reduce heat to medium, stir in the marinara sauce, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper. Cook just until the mixture starts to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Prepare creamy layer: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Combine noodles and creamy mixture: Add the cooled egg noodles to the creamy mixture bowl and stir to evenly coat the noodles with the sour cream and cottage cheese blend.
- Assemble casserole – first layer: Spread half of the sour cream and noodle mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add ground beef layer: Spoon half of the ground beef and marinara sauce mixture over the noodle layer.
- Sprinkle cheese: Evenly distribute 2 cups of the shredded cheese blend over the beef layer.
- Repeat layers: Layer the remaining sour cream noodle mixture, then the remaining ground beef mixture.
- Top with cheese: Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use wide egg noodles for best texture and layering.
- Rinsing noodles after cooking prevents them from sticking together.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste based on dietary preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
