There is something so wonderfully comforting and downright delicious about this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe. Imagine tender wide egg noodles enveloped in a creamy blend of sour cream and cottage cheese, layered with savory ground beef simmered in rich marinara, and topped with a luscious blanket of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It’s the kind of warm, cheesy casserole that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and satisfies every craving for hearty, homestyle food. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish is a showstopper that delivers comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From creamy dairy to savory beef and sharp cheese, these pantry staples come together in harmony for this memorable meal.
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles: The wide shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, providing a satisfying bite in every forkful.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty, meaty richness without excess fat, making the dish flavorful yet balanced.
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses savory warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 24 ounce jar of marinara sauce (I used RAO’s brand): Brings tangy tomato goodness that envelops the beef in a comforting sauce.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Divided): Used thoughtfully to season both the beef and the creamy noodle layers perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (Divided): Adds just the right touch of mild heat and complexity.
- 1¼ cup 4% small curd cottage cheese: Gives moisture and creaminess to the sour cream topping without overpowering it.
- ½ cup sour cream: The magic ingredient that makes this noodle bake irresistibly creamy and tangy.
- â…“ cup thinly sliced green onions: Freshness and a mild oniony crunch brighten the creamy layer.
- 3 cups shredded cheese (1½ cups mild cheddar and 1½ cups Monterey Jack): Melts into a gooey, golden topping that brings richness and flavor contrast.
How to Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and spraying a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This prep ensures your casserole will come out easily after baking and sets the stage for layering the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Wide Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the wide egg noodles. Cook them until just al dente, so they’re tender but still hold their shape. Drain the noodles, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking—this step guarantees perfect texture in the final bake.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef with Aromatics
While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, chopped sweet yellow onions, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring often until the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender, stirring as you go. Then, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Step 4: Simmer the Beef in Marinara Sauce
Return the beef mixture to the skillet and lower the heat to medium. Stir in the marinara sauce, half the kosher salt, and half the freshly cracked black pepper. Let it gently simmer just until bubbling, then remove it from the heat. This simmering step lets all those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Noodle Layer
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, green onions, and the remaining half of the kosher salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. Then fold in the cooked noodles to coat them thoroughly in the creamy mixture.
Step 6: Layer Your Bake
Spread half of the sour cream and noodle mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the beef and marinara mixture over that, then sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining sour cream noodles, beef mixture, and finish by topping with the last cup of shredded cheese. This layering builds flavor and texture in every bite.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. You’re looking for melted golden cheese on top and a bubbling beef mixture beneath. When the Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is done, it’s hot, aromatic, and ready for you to enjoy.
How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate every serving, sprinkle extra thinly sliced green onions or a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top. A light dusting of paprika can add a beautiful color contrast and gentle smoky warmth, making the dish as visually inviting as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This noodle bake pairs perfectly with crisp, refreshing sides such as a simple green salad with vinaigrette or steamed fresh vegetables like asparagus or green beans. A loaf of crusty bread also complements it beautifully, perfect for mopping up any lingering sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in oven-safe ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This makes it perfect for entertaining, giving each guest a personal casserole. You could also top servings with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat and creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld even more after a day, making for an even tastier next-day meal. It safely keeps for up to 3 days, perfect for easy reheating.
Freezing
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Prepare the casserole fully but don’t bake it; cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready to bake fresh when you want a comforting homemade dinner.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes helps revive that golden, melty cheese topping. Microwave reheating is possible but may compromise the texture slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While wide egg noodles are ideal for this bake because they hold the sauce well, you could substitute with penne, rotini, or even shells. Just make sure to cook them al dente and drain properly to maintain the perfect texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers sautéed with the onions and garlic. The marinara and sour cream sauce keep the dish rich and satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use lactose-free or plant-based sour cream and cottage cheese alternatives, and dairy-free shredded cheese blends. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will change slightly, but it still works well.
How spicy is this dish?
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is mild and family-friendly with just a bit of peppery warmth. You can easily adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce if you want more heat.
What’s the best cheese combination for this recipe?
The blend of mild cheddar and Monterey Jack is perfect for balancing sharpness with creaminess and meltability. You can experiment with mozzarella, Colby, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers delicious layers of creamy noodles and savory beef that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this comforting classic your new favorite dinner!
Print
Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and comforting Sour Cream Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles with a savory ground beef and marinara sauce mixture, layered with creamy cottage cheese, sour cream, and a three-cheese blend. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a satisfying family-friendly casserole perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 24 ounce jar of Marinara Sauce (RAO’s brand recommended)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided in half)
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (divided in half)
Dairy & Mix-ins
- 1¼ cup 4% small curd cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- â…“ cup thinly sliced green onions
- 3 cups shredded cheese (1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: In a 5 to 6 quart saucepan, bring water to a low boil over medium-high heat. Add the wide egg noodles and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture: While the noodles cook, heat a 10 to 12 inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic; cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink.
- Drain Excess Fat: Carefully drain any excess oil from the cooked ground beef mixture to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Simmer Meat Sauce: Return the beef and onion mixture to the skillet, reduce heat to medium, then stir in the marinara sauce along with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook just until the mixture begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Mix Dairy and Noodles: In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper; stir to combine thoroughly. Add the cooled cooked noodles and stir gently until noodles are evenly coated.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the sour cream and noodle mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the meat sauce mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese over the top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat by layering the remaining sour cream noodle mixture, then the remaining meat sauce, and finish by topping with the last cup of shredded cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use wide egg noodles for best texture and layering in the bake.
- Rinsing noodles after cooking stops the cooking process, preventing mushiness during baking.
- Draining excess fat from the beef avoids a greasy casserole.
- You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
