This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a warm, yummy dish that combines beef, noodles, and creamy sour cream sauce. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 🥰
I love how easy it is to throw everything together—just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something hearty and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are your base for the casserole. If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, wide noodles or even pasta like fusilli can work well. Just ensure the cooking time aligns for the best texture.
Ground Beef: While I often use 80/20 ground beef for its flavor, you can choose ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Each brings a unique taste to the dish!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. It’s thick and adds a slight tang like sour cream.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices that blend nicely. However, feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for some spiciness or use a dairy-free cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can make your own if you prefer homemade—just sauté mushrooms with some flour and broth. A cream of chicken soup works in a pinch, too!
How Do I Brown Ground Beef Perfectly?
Getting that beef browned nicely is key for flavor in this casserole. Start by breaking the meat apart in a hot skillet. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil if your beef is very lean.
- Add in the ground beef, and let it sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes to get a nice sear.
- Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces, stirring occasionally until it’s fully browned.
- Don’t rush! This browning step brings out flavor, especially when cooked with onions and garlic.
Always remember to drain excess fat after cooking; this keeps your casserole from becoming too greasy.
How to Make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef noodle casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s an easy and hearty meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and nicely.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the beef mixture.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained egg noodles with the beef mixture. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well so that all the noodles and beef are coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps every bite be delicious!
6. Add the Cheese:
Now, it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously on top of your casserole. Yum!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly—just perfect!
8. Cool and Garnish:
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to add a bit of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty and comforting Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole!
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! You can substitute egg noodles with other pasta types like rotini, penne, or even whole wheat noodles. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so just check for doneness according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can make this casserole dairy-free! Use dairy-free sour cream, milk, and cheese substitutes. Coconut cream or cashew cream can be great alternatives for sour cream. Just ensure the substitutes melt and blend well in the casserole.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole Before Baking?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole! Assemble it according to the recipe, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed, adding an additional 10-15 minutes if it’s still cold from the fridge.
