Creamy, cheesy beef noodle casserole—easy, hearty, and perfect for cozy family dinners.
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, this sour cream beef noodle casserole is just what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. Let’s dive into the recipe step by step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients to make cooking easier and more organized. Having everything ready ahead of time will make the cooking process much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
- 12 ounces egg noodles (about half a standard package)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken if you prefer)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat or light, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (and a little extra for sprinkling on top).
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind you have on hand)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor).
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or swap with rosemary, oregano, or your favorite herb).
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or use vegetable oil, canola oil, or butter as an alternative).
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese for a crispy finish
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
First, let’s cook the egg noodles.Fill a large pot with water and place it on the stove over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the noodles as they cook. Once the water is boiling, add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes. You want the noodles to be tender but still firm (al dente) since they’ll continue cooking in the casserole later.
When the noodles are done, drain them in a colander and set them aside. To prevent them from sticking together, you can toss them with a little olive oil or butter.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the noodles are cooking, let’s prepare the beef.Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Cook the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme as it cooks. These spices will add wonderful flavor to the dish.
Once the beef is fully cooked, carefully drain any extra grease from the skillet to keep the casserole light and flavorful. This step is important to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to make the creamy sauce that brings everything together. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and well combined. Stir these ingredients until they’re well mixed and smooth. The sour cream adds a tangy richness, while the soup and milk create a velvety base for the sauce.
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed. If you like your casserole extra cheesy, feel free to add a little more cheese here. The sauce should be thick but pourable.
Step 4: Combine the Noodles, Beef, and Sauce
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In the same large mixing bowl (or a clean one if you prefer), combine the cooked egg noodles and the browned ground beef. Mix them together gently so the beef is evenly distributed throughout the noodles.
Next, pour the creamy sauce over the noodle and beef mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to fold everything together until the noodles and beef are fully coated in the sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the noodles.
Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, making sure the top is smooth. If you’d like, you can sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the top for a gooey, golden crust. For added texture, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is hot, place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the casserole is done when the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden. If you added extra cheese, it should be melted and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve
When the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Serving Suggestions
While this casserole is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side dish can make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas to complement its rich flavors:
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots bring a healthy, colorful touch to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adding a delicious crunch.
Tips and Variations
This casserole is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some tips and variations to customize the dish to your taste:
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. This is a fantastic time-saver for those hectic, busy days!
- Freeze It: This dish freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a quick, delicious meal.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas. These additions not only boost the dish’s health factor but also add a pop of color.
- Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. It’s an easy way to give the casserole a spicy kick.
Why This Casserole Works
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food because it combines simple, everyday ingredients into a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. The tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and rich, tangy sauce create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry or fridge. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, this casserole delivers every time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something warm and comforting, this sour cream beef noodle casserole is a winner. It’s quick to prepare, uses ingredients you probably already have, and is sure to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try—it might just become a staple in your meal rotation!
Enjoy your meal!