Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and creamy goodness, all baked to perfection. Whenever I whip up this comforting casserole, it reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathers around the table and digs in, accompanied by laughter and stories. It’s the kind of meal that evokes nostalgia while delivering satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love Making It

This recipe shines for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a hearty meal that serves a crowd. It’s also a budget-friendly option, as the ingredients are economical and easy to find. Plus, the creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this casserole a hit, not just with adults but also with kids!

“This is my go-to recipe for family gatherings. Everyone raves about it! It’s rich, comforting, and exactly what I need after a long day.” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a straightforward process. You’ll begin by cooking your noodles and browning the beef, then mix everything together with tasty ingredients to create a creamy casserole that bakes beautifully in the oven. Here’s a brief overview of the steps you’ll follow:

Cook the egg noodles and set aside.
Brown the ground beef and onion, draining any excess fat.
Combine the cream, cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
Mix everything together, pour into a casserole dish, and bake!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

8 ounces egg noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cups sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Note: You can substitute ground turkey for beef if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Cooking Steps

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion over medium heat until the beef no longer has any pink. Drain excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked noodles and beef mixture to the bowl, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated. If using peas, fold them in gently.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Best Way to Serve

The beauty of Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is its versatility. It’s satisfying enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with:

A fresh garden salad for a crunchy contrast.
Garlic bread or rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.
Steamed vegetables for a healthy side.

For an added touch, consider garnishing with parsley or additional cheese before serving to make it visually appetizing!

Storage Tips

Leftover Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole can be enjoyed later, making it a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerate: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freeze: You can freeze portions for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Expert Advice

Consider cooking the casserole the night before and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
For extra creaminess, you might add a little more sour cream or double up on the cheese. A cheese mix also introduces more flavors!
If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for that crispy texture.

Creative Twists

While this dish is classic as it is, feel free to play around with flavors:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Vegetarian Style: Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms and a blend of chopped veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini.
Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese to switch things up.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to prepare and cook the casserole?

The total preparation and cooking time is around 1 hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving!

3. Is it safe to freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure it’s stored properly to maintain its quality.

This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Diet: Beef

Description

A delightful casserole that combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and creamy goodness, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces egg noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cups sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, shredded cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked noodles and beef mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated. If using peas, fold them in gently.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a lighter option, consider substituting ground turkey for beef. You can also garnish with parsley or additional cheese before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, beef noodle, family dinner, comfort food, quick recipe