If you’re craving a hearty, cozy dish that brings together creamy textures, savory flavors, and a delightful cheesy top, this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine tender wide egg noodles enveloped in a rich sour cream and cottage cheese blend, layered with perfectly seasoned ground beef simmered in tangy marinara sauce and topped with a bubbly, golden crust of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This bake is a comforting crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple and straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe irresistible. From the mild sweetness of the yellow onion to the creamy balance of sour cream, every item adds a unique touch to the final dish.
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles: Their broad shape holds onto creamy sauces beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein with just the right amount of savory richness.
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion: Provides a gentle sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor that wakes up the palate.
- 24 ounce jar of Marinara Sauce: A robust tomato base that ties the beef and noodles together with lively acidity and herbs.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (divided): Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
- 1¼ cup 4% small curd cottage cheese: Brings creamy texture and a slight tang to the noodle layer.
- ½ cup sour cream: The star ingredient that makes this bake wonderfully moist and silky.
- â…“ cup thinly sliced green onions: Sprinkles freshness and gentle bite into the creamy noodle mix.
- 3 cups shredded cheese (1½ cups mild cheddar + 1½ cups Monterey Jack): Melts into a golden, gooey blanket topping the layers with irresistible cheesiness.
How to Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly. Meanwhile, spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to help your bake come out looking perfect and intact.
Step 2: Cooking the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a low boil and add the egg noodles. Cooking them al dente is key — you want them soft but with a little bite to hold their shape during baking. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water, which stops them from overcooking and keeps their texture just right for layering.
Step 3: Browning the Ground Beef Mixture
While the noodles are cooking, heat up a skillet on medium-high and add the ground beef, yellow onion, and minced garlic. Stir frequently as the beef cooks until it’s no longer pink and the onions are tender and sweet-smelling. Drain off any excess fat to keep the bake from feeling greasy.
Step 4: Adding Marinara and Seasonings
Return the beef mixture to the pan with the heat reduced to medium, then stir in the marinara sauce, half of the salt, and half of the black pepper. Let everything heat just until simmering to marry those flavors without cooking off the vibrancy of the sauce. Then remove from heat to prep the next layer.
Step 5: Mixing the Creamy Noodle Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, the remaining salt, and black pepper. Stir these together until perfectly blended, then fold in the cooled egg noodles so they’re evenly coated in that luscious creamy mixture, setting the stage for the bake’s signature texture.
Step 6: Assembling the Bake
Now the fun part: layer half of the sour cream noodles evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish, followed by half the ground beef sauce. Next, sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded cheese to bring in that rich, melty layer. Repeat with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and finish off with the last cup of cheese on top — this will bake into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.
Step 7: Baking to Perfection
Bake your assembled casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, slightly browned in spots, and the ground beef mixture is bubbling hot. This final step fuses all the flavors together and gives the dish its irresistible comforting appeal.
How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the rich, cheesy bake, freshly chopped parsley or extra sliced green onions work beautifully as a garnish. They add a pop of color, subtle freshness, and a textural contrast that balances the creamy, hearty noodles and beef.
Side Dishes
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The lightness and crunch of these sides complement the creamy, filling main dish without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve this bake straight from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop their own satisfying portions. For a fancier presentation, scoop individual servings onto plates and top with a drizzle of extra marinara or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal that tastes just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this noodle bake before baking or after it’s fully cooked. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. Microwaving works too, but the oven method helps maintain that wonderful cheesy top and the bake’s overall texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for wide egg noodles because they hold the creamy sauce well, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even rigatoni if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the pasta stays al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version that still delivers plenty of savory flavor and texture.
Can I use a homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought?
Certainly! A homemade marinara can add a personal touch and fresh flavor to your bake. Just keep the seasoning balanced so it complements the creamy sour cream and cheese layers perfectly.
What’s the purpose of rinsing the noodles with cold water after cooking?
Rinsing the noodles stops them from cooking further so they don’t become mushy in the bake. It also prevents them from sticking together, which helps keep the layers distinct and the texture just right.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire casserole a few hours or even a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is a total gem—comforting, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor that feel homemade and special. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an inviting dish for guests, this bake always delivers smiles and satisfaction. Give it a try, and prepare to have a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
Print
Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting layered casserole featuring tender egg noodles mixed with a creamy sour cream and cottage cheese blend, savory ground beef simmered in marinara sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This hearty baked dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors all baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Noodles and Sauce
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 24 ounce jar Marinara Sauce (such as RAO’s brand)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided into ½ teaspoon portions)
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper (divided into ½ teaspoon portions)
Dairy and Toppings
- 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 the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring water to a low boil in a 5 to 6 quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: While noodles cook, heat a 10 to 12 inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the beef is no longer pink and onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain Excess Fat: Pour off any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy bake.
- Simmer with Marinara: Return the beef and onions to medium heat. Stir in the marinara sauce, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper. Cook gently just until the mixture begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the Creamy Noodle Mix: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and remaining ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Mix Noodles with Creamy Mixture: Add the cooked and cooled noodles to the sour cream mixture. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy blend.
- Assemble the Casserole – First Layer: Spread half of the sour cream and noodle mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Beef Layer: Spoon half of the ground beef and marinara mixture over the noodle layer, spreading it evenly.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack) evenly on top of the beef layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining sour cream noodle mixture, followed by the remaining ground beef mixture, and finally top with the last 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the bake hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lower fat option, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- You can swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier twist.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture while simmering.
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles as they will continue softening during baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
