When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke as much nostalgia as a hearty casserole. This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, blending creamy textures with rich, savory flavors. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, meal prep, or even a potluck gathering. The layers of egg noodles, seasoned beef, and cheesy goodness make this dish irresistible.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8 oz egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned (about 10 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese. Add the cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
Spread half of the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles and meat sauce.
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted.
Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving) (Approximate values based on the recipe)

Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg

Origins and Inspiration

Casseroles have a long history as a go-to meal for families around the world. The combination of ground beef, noodles, and cheese draws inspiration from traditional baked pasta dishes, but the addition of sour cream and cottage cheese gives it a unique creamy twist. This dish takes cues from Midwestern comfort food traditions, where hearty ingredients and rich flavors reign supreme.

The Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole also reflects the practicality of American cooking during the mid-20th century. With the rise of pre-packaged noodles and canned tomato sauce, recipes like this became staples in households looking for convenience without sacrificing taste.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Layered Perfection: The magic of this casserole lies in its layers. From the seasoned beef to the creamy noodles and melted cheese topping, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Versatility: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. Swap out the ground beef for turkey, or add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or casual gathering, this dish never fails to impress. The comforting combination of ingredients is universally loved, making it a safe bet for feeding a group.
Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole holds up well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

The Role of Key Ingredients

Sour Cream and Cottage Cheese: These ingredients bring a creamy, tangy richness to the dish, elevating it from ordinary to indulgent. They also help balance the acidity of the tomato sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Egg Noodles: Soft yet sturdy, egg noodles are the perfect base for this casserole. They soak up the flavors of the meat sauce while maintaining their structure during baking.
Cheddar Cheese: The crowning glory of this casserole, cheddar cheese, adds a savory, gooey finish that ties everything together.
Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: The tomato sauce, flavored with Italian seasoning, garlic, and onions, provides a robust and savory backbone to the dish. It’s simple yet effective, allowing the other ingredients to shine.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef and fresh dairy products to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Season as You Go: Layering the casserole means each component should be well-seasoned to avoid a bland final dish.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the noodles just until al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
Customize: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or a touch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Highlights

While this casserole is undoubtedly indulgent, it also provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. With approximately 420 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps you full and energized. The inclusion of cottage cheese and cheddar offers calcium, while the ground beef contributes iron and other essential nutrients.

Pairing Suggestions

This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or dinner rolls. A light dessert, such as fruit salad or sorbet, can round out the meal without overwhelming the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and ability to evoke a sense of home. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cold winter nights or whenever you need a little extra comfort. Its adaptable nature also ensures you can tweak it to suit your family’s preferences, ensuring it becomes a regular feature on your dining table.

Conclusion

The Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of how food can bring people together. With its creamy textures, savory layers, and cheesy topping, this dish is a celebration of comfort and practicality. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress. Its nostalgic appeal and hearty flavors make it a timeless classic that you’ll return to again and again.

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