Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
There’s something about a hearty casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family dinners, where everyone gathers around the table, laughter filling the air as the aroma of comfort food envelops us. This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is one such delightful dish. With tender egg noodles enveloped in creamy goodness and savory beef, it perfectly strikes a balance between ease and satisfaction.
When life gets busy, I crave meals that combine simplicity with flavor; this casserole checks both boxes! It’s an uncomplicated recipe that even the newest cooks can tackle. Rich and comforting, each bite reminds us of the nostalgia of home-cooked meals. Plus, it showcases how a handful of basic ingredients can transform into a hearty, soul-warming meal. Everyone will be coming back for seconds, and perhaps thirds, so grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful casserole recipe!
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To create this delicious Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole, you’ll need just a few essential tools that will make the cooking process seamless. A sturdy skillet is essential for browning the ground beef and onions, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
You’ll also want a large pot for cooking the egg noodles; a colander for draining them is a must. Finally, don’t forget a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to hold that yummy casserole mixture while it bakes to perfection. Here’s a quick list of kitchen essentials:
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
- Greased 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
Having these ready will set you up beautifully for this delightful cooking experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to weeknight dinners, comfort food reigns supreme, and this dish embodies all the coziness we crave at the end of a long day. The Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a fantastic blend of flavors, featuring savory beef, creamy sour cream, and the subtle nutty flavor of cheddar cheese. The egg noodles act as the perfect canvas for all these rich tastes, coming together to create a meal that’s not just filling but incredibly satisfying.
Imagine pulling that bubbling, golden casserole out of the oven, the melted cheese inviting you to dig in. Each forkful is a combination of creamy and meaty goodness, with hidden pockets of sweet peas adding a pop of color and texture. The balance of creamy sour cream with the protein-rich beef and cheesy topping strikes a delightful balance.
You’ll appreciate how this recipe invites you to simplify your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy date night at home, or just a little self-care on a rainy day, this casserole will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:
- Comforting flavors: A delightful combination of beef, creamy sauce, and cheese.
- Filling and hearty: Perfect for hungry households or cozy nights in.
- Easy to make: Straightforward steps make it a hassle-free dinner option.
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser and a staple in your dinner rotation.
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is just the beginning of this delicious journey. For this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole, you’ll need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Each of these components plays a role in creating the rich and flavorful experience. The egg noodles provide a great base, while the ground beef and mushrooms add depth. The creamy sour cream and cheese come together to create that iconic comfort food flavor. You’ll find everything you need for this wholesome dish in your grocery store!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delicious Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is as easy as 1-2-3, well actually it’s 8 steps! Let’s get started.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to enjoy the cozy warmth that will soon fill your home.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside. As you drain them, marvel at how wonderfully they’ve cooked up.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat. You’ll smell the savory scents filling your kitchen, and once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined, making sure to scrape the bottom to get all those delicious bits.
- Carefully fold in the cooked egg noodles and optional frozen peas, gently mixing them into the creamy beef mixture. The colors will brighten your dish as the peas spread throughout!
- Transfer the combined mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and get ready for the crowning glory.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, ensuring each portion gets a cheesy layer. The cheese will melt into a glorious golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Fun Variations You Can Try
While this recipe stands beautifully on its own, there’s always room to make it your own! Here are some fun variations you can try to personalize your casserole:
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños can add a delightful kick if you’re in the mood for spice!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sharp gouda for a new flavor twist.
- Different Proteins: Try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the taste, while a dash of garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own, reflecting your taste preferences!
How I Love to Serve It
When I dish up this wonderful casserole, I like to serve it alongside a crisp green salad dotted with tomatoes and cucumbers. The freshness of the greens is a lovely contrast to the heartiness of the casserole. I often add a side of garlic bread to wipe up the creamy sauce left on our plates—there’s never any leftover!
Plating is simple; I scoop a generous portion onto each plate, letting the cheese stretch as I lift my spoon. The golden crust beckons you while the creamy filling waits to be devoured. I enjoy gathering my loved ones around the table, where we can share stories and laughter as we savor each mouthful. This casserole finds its way into our hearts and our bellies, encouraging those cozy, warm feelings of home.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Every recipe comes with its little quirks, and I’m excited to share some tips I’ve learned along the way!
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook them al dente—they’ll continue to soften as they bake in the casserole.
- Browning the beef: Make sure to brown it well; it enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes.
- Leftover storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results rather than in the microwave.
- Adjust flavors: Always taste as you go—adjust seasonings to your preference.
These insights will help you perfect your Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole and keep it trending as a family favorite!
Important Cooking Reminders
Here are some crucial reminders to keep in mind while making this delicious casserole:
- Safety notes: Always ensure the beef is cooked to a safe temperature of 160°F (71°C) to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Reheating methods: Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through for the best texture.
- Storage tips: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Avoid overcooking the noodles and under-seasoning—these two can make a noticeable difference in your dish.
Keeping these reminders in mind will lead you to success in creating this comforting casserole each time.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole isn’t just tasty; it’s also reasonably nutritious! While the specifics can vary based on brands and exact measurements, here’s a general idea:
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
This hearty meal can help satisfy those hungry bellies while providing essential nutrients.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Common Questions You Might Have
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can swap in any pasta shape you prefer like rotini or penne. Just be mindful of the cooking times.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed veggies or canned black beans for added protein. You can also use additional cheese to up the creaminess.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh side salad for crunch and lightness or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or a loaf of warm bread is also a perfect companion for soaking up the creamy sauce!
Conclusion
There’s something so heartwarming about gathering around the table for a meal that brings back fond memories, and this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole does just that. The combination of flavors swirls together to create an experience that warms not only the stomach but the soul. Comfort food isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about gathering, sharing love, and making memories.
As you prepare this dish, envision yourself creating laughter-filled dinners that wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Every spoonful should bring back the nostalgia of home-cooked meals and the connection shared with loved ones. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary journey, just as it has in mine. Serve it up, dig in, and enjoy every comforting bite of your delicious Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole—because you deserve it!
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Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting casserole featuring tender egg noodles, savory beef, and creamy sour cream, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat, then drain any excess fat.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Fold in the cooked egg noodles and optional peas until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool before serving.
Notes
Don’t overcook the noodles; they will soften further in the casserole. You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: casserole, comfort food, beef recipe, easy dinner, family meal