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Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

Sour cream beef noodle casserole is the kind of meal that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Combining tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, creamy sour cream layers, and melted cheese, this casserole is a perfect choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or make-ahead meals. It has the satisfying qualities of lasagna and the cozy simplicity of a traditional homemade casserole.

This dish is loved because it uses simple pantry-friendly ingredients while creating layers of flavor and texture. The savory beef mixture provides depth, the sour cream adds a smooth tangy richness, and the cheese creates a golden, bubbly topping that makes every serving irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Beef Sauce

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups tomato sauce
1 can (14–15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the Creamy Noodle Layer

12 ounces egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions (optional)

For the Topping

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.

Preparing the dish first makes assembly easier and prevents the casserole from sticking while baking.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, but stop slightly before they become fully soft.

The noodles will continue cooking in the oven, so keeping them slightly firm prevents them from becoming mushy. After draining, rinse them briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.