If you are craving a cozy, satisfying casserole that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Sour Cream Noodle Bake is exactly what you need. Featuring tender egg noodles smothered in creamy sour cream and cottage cheese, layered with savory ground beef cooked in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with gooey cheddar, this dish delivers comfort and bold flavors in every bite. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive in taste—a perfect dish to share with family or friends any night of the week.

Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be pantry staples, but together they create the perfect balance of creaminess, heartiness, and cheesy goodness that makes the Sour Cream Noodle Bake such a crowd-pleaser. Each component plays a key role—whether it’s the egg noodles providing structure, or the Italian seasoning adding that signature savory touch.

Egg noodles: Use 8 ounces for a soft yet slightly chewy base that holds the sauce beautifully.
Ground beef: One pound brings rich, meaty flavor and protein to the dish.
Medium onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
Garlic cloves, minced: Two cloves give a fragrant punch that rounds out the savory profile.
Tomato sauce (15 ounces): Creates a tangy, savory layer that ties everything together.
Sour cream: One cup adds creamy texture and a slight tang that lifts the entire bake.
Cottage cheese: One cup contributes mild creaminess and keeps things moist.
Shredded cheddar cheese: One and a half cups for that irresistible melty top and flavorful layer inside.
Italian seasoning: One teaspoon to infuse the meat sauce with classic herbaceous notes.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Cooking spray or oil: For greasing the baking dish and preventing sticking.

How to Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cook the Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain them well and set them aside, as these noodles will soak up all the creamy flavors later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef with Onion and Garlic

Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This step builds the savory base of the bake, and draining off excess fat at this point keeps the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Simmer the Meat Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the browned beef mixture. Let this simmer gently for about five minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly—it’s the saucy heart of the Sour Cream Noodle Bake, bringing richness and a hint of herbal warmth.

Step 4: Combine Noodles with Sour Cream and Cottage Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, blend the sour cream and cottage cheese together until creamy. Toss the drained egg noodles into this mixture, stirring carefully until the noodles are thoroughly coated. This creamy layer ensures every bite is soft and luscious, balancing the meat’s savory intensity.

Step 5: Layer the Bake

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil. Start by spreading half of the creamy noodle mixture on the bottom. Then spoon half of the meat sauce evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle half a cup of shredded cheddar on top for that delightful cheesy layer. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with the remaining shredded cheddar at the very top. This layering creates a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors that bake together perfectly.

Step 6: Bake to Melty Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional five minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden. Let it rest for a few minutes once out of the oven—that way, all the layers settle into a perfect, sliceable casserole.

How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely burst of color and freshness to this creamy casserole. You can also add a light dusting of smoked paprika to give the top a little smoky warmth that complements the tangy sour cream beautifully.

Side Dishes

This hearty bake pairs wonderfully with simple green sides, like a crisp mixed salad or steamed broccoli, to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress it up for a potluck or family gathering, serve the Sour Cream Noodle Bake in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Alternatively, garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of extra cheddar to highlight its creamy roots and cheesy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will keep well for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious meal again without extra effort.

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully. Prepare and assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready, bake it covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, adding extra time to ensure it is heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until bubbly and hot.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can work well. Just adjust the cooking time and seasoning slightly to suit the protein you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, swap out regular egg noodles for gluten-free noodles made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Just be mindful of the cooking time as gluten-free noodles can vary in how quickly they soften.

What if I do not have cottage cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. It offers a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the sour cream and noodles perfectly.

Can I make the Sour Cream Noodle Bake vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a medley of your favorite vegetables to keep the bake hearty and flavorful without meat.

How do I prevent the bake from becoming watery?

Drain the cooked noodles and browned meat mixture thoroughly before assembling. Also, don’t overcook the noodles initially, as they will continue to soften in the oven with the sauces.

Final Thoughts

This Sour Cream Noodle Bake is one of those comforting dishes that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into something special. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always deliciously creamy and cheesy. I hope you give it a try and find it as satisfying and comforting as I do. Once you taste those layers of tangy, savory, cheesy goodness, it might just become a family favorite!

Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 31 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This comforting Sour Cream Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles with savory ground beef and a creamy sour cream and cottage cheese mixture. Layered with melted cheddar cheese and seasoned with Italian herbs, it’s an easy-to-make casserole perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
Cook Noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside.
Brown Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.
Add Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Combine Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the sour cream and cottage cheese. Add the drained noodles to this mixture and stir until the noodles are evenly coated.
Assemble First Layer: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. Layer half of the noodle mixture evenly at the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture on top and sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
Assemble Second Layer: Repeat the layering with the remaining noodles and beef mixture. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on the top layer.
Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and flavors to blend.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes or until the cheddar cheese on top is melted and bubbly, creating a delicious golden crust.
Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Notes

For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
You can swap cottage cheese for ricotta cheese for a different creamy texture.
Adjust the seasoning to taste or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Adding chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving adds freshness and color.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American