Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole. This cozy, family-friendly dish is packed with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce made from sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, every bite is warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser, this casserole brings simplicity and flavor together in one dish. It uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients and requires minimal prep. Best of all, it’s highly customizable—you can add veggies, spice, or swap proteins to make it your own. Whether you’re feeding a large family or prepping meals for the week, this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic – Creamy, cheesy, and full of beefy goodness.
2. Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make it weeknight-friendly.
3. Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry and fridge staples.
4. Family-Approved – Mild, savory flavors everyone at the table will enjoy.
5. Great for Leftovers – Stores and reheats beautifully for easy meals later.

Ingredients

• Egg noodles
• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Use a Different Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef.
• Make It Healthier: Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-sodium soup, and whole wheat noodles.
• Top with Crunch: Add crushed crackers or French fried onions for texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook egg noodles until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture. Add cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook noodles al dente—they’ll soften more while baking.
• Use fresh garlic for extra depth of flavor.
• Let the casserole sit a few minutes before serving so it sets.
• Shred your own cheese for the best melt and taste.
• Add broth or extra milk if the mixture seems too thick before baking.

How to Serve

Serve this casserole hot and fresh out of the oven with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs nicely with crusty bread or garlic toast. For a fuller meal, add a side of roasted carrots, green beans, or a bowl of soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze the fully baked casserole (or unbaked) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. If freezing unbaked, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely. Plain Greek yogurt works as a healthier alternative.

3. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

Use cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce if preferred.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Freeze it baked or unbaked for up to 2 months.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s mild. Add chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or peas are great additions.

7. Can I use different noodles?

Yes, rotini or penne work well. Just avoid overly delicate pastas.

8. What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella give great melt and flavor, but you can add Monterey Jack or provolone too.

9. Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Definitely! It has a mild, creamy flavor most kids love.

10. How can I make it lower in fat?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat dairy, and whole grain noodles.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and creamy, cheesy goodness. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s ideal for busy families and picky eaters alike. Whether you’re making it ahead for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture that everyone will love. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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