Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy cheeses, and egg noodles. This baked casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the sauce mixture
1 pound ground beef
1 small sweet onion, small diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
15-ounce can tomato sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the noodle mixture
12 ounces egg noodles
1 ½ cups small curd cottage cheese
¾ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and onion. Break up the beef into crumbles and cook until there is no pink left and the onion has softened, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sauce simmers, cook and drain the egg noodles according to package directions.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and stir until the noodles are well coated with the cheese mixture.
8. Layer half of the noodle mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sauce and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining noodles, sauce, and cheese.
9. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese has melted.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. Total preparation and cooking time is about 50 minutes, including 30 minutes of hands-on time and 20 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sauce or noodle mixture for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Sour Cream Noodle Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of noodles?
   Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta types such as penne or rotini.
2. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sauces and cheeses are also gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, it freezes well. Cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw before baking.
4. What can I serve with Sour Cream Noodle Bake?
   A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
5. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Substitute the cheeses and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
7. What other seasonings can I add?
   Feel free to add Italian seasoning, paprika, or fresh herbs for more flavor.
8. Is it necessary to layer the ingredients?
   Layering helps distribute the flavors evenly but is not strictly necessary.
9. Can I omit the ground beef?
   Yes, you can skip the meat entirely for a lighter vegetarian version.
10. What should I do if the noodles are overcooked?
    If the noodles are too soft, reduce the baking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is an easy and satisfying dish that delivers both flavor and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or looking to impress guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With endless variations and the option to prepare it ahead of time, it’s a versatile choice for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious meal and make it a regular feature in your culinary repertoire!

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