Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Cozy Homestyle Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe: Family Favorite

Savory beef noodle casserole delights taste buds with its hearty, comforting embrace.

Layers of tender pasta and rich meat create a symphony of flavors.

Childhood memories often dance around classic dishes like these.

Families gather around steaming plates, eagerly anticipating each delectable bite.

Creamy sauce binds ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that feels like a warm hug.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, promising a meal that satisfies deep hunger.

comfort awaits you in this delightful culinary adventure.

We guarantee this recipe will become your new go-to dinner favorite.

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole That Everyone Loves

  • Whip Up Quickly: This casserole comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners that satisfy hunger without consuming hours in the kitchen.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Loaded with hearty beef, creamy sauce, and tender noodles, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
  • Budget-Friendly Comfort: Using simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and sour cream, this recipe delivers maximum flavor without breaking the bank.
  • Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Even beginner cooks can master this straightforward casserole, with easy step-by-step instructions that guarantee a delicious meal every time.

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Ingredients

Main Protein and Pasta:
  • Ground Beef: Rich and hearty base that provides deep flavor and protein for the casserole.
  • Egg Noodles: Classic pasta that creates a soft, comforting texture and absorbs sauce beautifully.
Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Sour Cream: Tangy ingredient that adds creamy richness and smooth consistency to the dish.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a velvety sauce base with earthy undertones.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts perfectly to add sharp flavor and gooey texture.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion, Garlic Powder: Adds depth and aromatic background notes to the casserole.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and brightening overall taste.
  • Paprika: Provides a mild, sweet warmth and beautiful reddish color.

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Comfort Bake Steps

Step 1: Boil Delicious Noodles

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.

Add the egg noodles and cook until they reach a perfect al dente texture, typically around 7-8 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and set aside, letting them cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Savory Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.

Cook the beef until it turns a rich brown color and is completely crumbled, ensuring no pink remains.

Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Create Creamy Flavor Base

In the same skillet with the browned beef, add:
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic

Sauté these ingredients until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.

Step 4: Blend Creamy Sauce Components

Lower the heat and stir in:
  • Sour cream
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Beef broth

Mix these ingredients thoroughly, creating a smooth and rich sauce that will coat the noodles and beef perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Casserole Elements

Gently fold the cooked noodles into the beef and sauce mixture.

Ensure every noodle gets evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a golden, melty layer that will become deliciously crispy when baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your comforting meal!

Casserole Tips For Sour Cream Beef Noodles

  • Cook egg noodles al dente to prevent mushiness, as they'll continue cooking in the casserole.
  • Rinse noodles with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect texture.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.
  • Add a splash of Greek yogurt with the sour cream for extra tanginess and protein boost.
  • Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld before baking for deeper taste.

Save Sour Cream Casserole for Later

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil, preserving the casserole for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
  • Warm individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Beef Noodle Casserole Pairings

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the rich, creamy beef flavors and cuts through the casserole's hearty texture.
  • Match with Crisp Garden Salad: Toss a light, tangy green salad with fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the casserole's creamy and meaty profile.
  • Serve with Roasted Vegetable Side: Prepare garlic-infused roasted broccoli or honey-glazed carrots to add color, nutrition, and a caramelized contrast to the dish.
  • Enhance with Craft Beer: Choose a malty amber ale or smooth brown ale that echoes the casserole's depth and provides a refreshing counterpoint to its richness.

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Mixes

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace traditional egg noodles with gluten-free wide pasta or rice noodles to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap noodles for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the casserole's creamy texture.
  • Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or mushroom medley for a protein-rich meatless version that keeps the comforting essence of the original dish.
  • Dairy-Free Modification: Use cashew cream or coconut yogurt instead of sour cream, and select dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a lactose-free casserole that still delivers rich, satisfying flavors.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in this casserole?

Ground beef, egg noodles, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese are the primary ingredients that create a rich and creamy texture for this classic comfort dish.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Most children love the cheesy, creamy flavor and soft noodles. The mild seasonings make it appealing to younger palates, and it’s an easy way to get protein into their diet.

  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before putting it in the oven.

  • Are there any tips for making the casserole extra flavorful?

Season the ground beef well with salt and pepper while browning, and consider adding some garlic powder or dried onion for an extra flavor boost. Using sharp cheddar cheese can also enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.

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Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy, cheesy Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole brings hearty Midwestern warmth to dinner tables. Savory ground beef, tender noodles, and rich sour cream sauce promise pure comfort in every comforting, satisfying bite you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

Noodles and Base:

  • 12 ounces egg noodles
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream

Seasonings and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter (1 tablespoon regular, 1 tablespoon melted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring to a rolling boil, ensuring enough space for the noodles to move freely during cooking.
  2. Submerge the egg noodles into the boiling water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook until they reach a tender yet firm texture, approximately 7-8 minutes.
  3. Drain the noodles in a colander, gently rinsing with cool water to halt the cooking process and prevent clumping.
  4. Heat a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature and add ground beef, breaking it down into small, uniform crumbles using a wooden spatula.
  5. Cook the beef until it transforms from pink to a rich, brown color and releases its natural juices, ensuring no pink remnants remain.
  6. Reduce the skillet’s heat and incorporate finely diced onions, sautéing until they become translucent and release a fragrant aroma.
  7. Sprinkle garlic powder and season with salt and pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the meat mixture.
  8. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth until smooth and well-integrated.
  9. Combine the cooked noodles with the seasoned beef, then gently fold in the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is generously coated.
  10. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
  11. Sprinkle shredded cheese across the top, covering the entire surface for a golden, melted finish.
  12. Place the casserole in a preheated oven and bake until the cheese becomes bubbly and slightly golden, typically 25-30 minutes.
  13. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to set before serving.

Notes

  • Opt for wider egg noodles to create a heartier base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Slightly undercook noodles during initial boiling since they’ll continue cooking in the casserole, preventing mushy texture.
  • Rinse noodles with cold water after boiling to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking together.
  • Pat noodles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a rich and creamy final dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

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