This Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a classic comfort food dish that combines hearty ground beef, rich sour cream and sharp cheddar cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Most of these ingredients are pantry-friendly, but you may want to double-check your sour cream and cottage cheese supplies. These dairy products provide the creaminess that makes this dish so satisfying. And don't forget to pick up some sharp cheddar cheese, the sharper the better, to add a tangy kick.
Ingredients for Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Ground beef: The base for our bake, ground beef adds substance and protein.
Tomato sauce: This gives a sweet and tangy flavor, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
Salt: An essential seasoning, it enhances the flavors of the dish.
Pepper: Adds a slight heat to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Onion powder: It contributes a sweet and savory depth to the meat.
Egg noodles: The heart of our bake, egg noodles are hearty and satisfying.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and meat.
Cottage cheese: Provides extra creaminess and a nice texture contrast.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a delectable cheesy topping.
One reader, Giacinta Peeples says:
This beefy sour cream noodle bake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory beef, creamy sour cream, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. It's a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners. Plus, it's easy to make and always a hit with everyone. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required
How to brown ground beef: In a medium-sized skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
How to simmer tomato sauce: After adding the tomato sauce to the browned ground beef, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to cook egg noodles until al dente: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the egg noodles, and cook for the time indicated on the package, usually about 6-8 minutes. Test for doneness by tasting a noodle; it should be tender but still slightly firm.
How to layer the noodle bake: Grease a 9x13 inch pan and start by layering half of the cooked noodles, followed by half of the ground beef mixture, and then half of the cheese. Repeat the layers and finish with a final layer of cheese on top.
How to bake the noodle bake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the assembled noodle bake for about 20 minutes, or until it is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How To Make Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Egg noodles are incorporated into this noodle bake, along with beef, sour cream, and two types of cheese. The result is a unique and delicious casserole.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1¼lbground beef
- 15oztomato sauce
- ½tspsalt
- ¼tsppepper
- ¼tsponion powder
- 8ozegg noodles
- ¾cupsour cream
- 1¼cupsmall curd cottage cheese
- 2cupsharp cheddar cheese,grated
Instructions
-
In a medium sized skillet, brown the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Drain the excess fat. Add the tomato sauce and simmer on low for 10 minutes.
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Cook the noodles until al dente, drain and set aside. In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese. Add the noodles and stir to coat.
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Grease a 9×13-inch pan and layer with half of the noodles, half of the ground beef mixture, and top with half of the cheese. Repeat the layers and end with cheese.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Nutrition
- Calories: 512.17kcal
- Fat: 32.52g
- Saturated Fat: 15.21g
- Trans Fat: 1.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.51g
- Carbohydrates: 25.39g
- Fiber: 1.77g
- Sugar: 4.08g
- Protein: 29.13g
- Cholesterol: 124.98mg
- Sodium: 655.38mg
- Calcium: 306.46mg
- Potassium: 512.39mg
- Iron: 3.15mg
- Vitamin A: 157.12µg
- Vitamin C: 3.93mg
Technique Tip for Making the Perfect Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the salt, pepper, and onion powder more effectively. Also, when layering the ingredients in the pan, try to distribute them as evenly as possible. This will result in a more balanced flavor and texture in every bite of your beefy sour cream noodle bake.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Noodle Bake Recipe
Prep ahead: Brown the ground beef and cook the noodles in advance to save time when assembling the dish.
Double batch: Make a double batch and freeze one for a quick and easy meal later.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the beef and noodles together to minimize clean-up time.
Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating.
Quick assembly: Have all the ingredients prepped and ready to assemble the dish quickly and efficiently.
Make it a family affair: Get the family involved in the cooking process to divide and conquer tasks, making the preparation faster and more enjoyable.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, saving time during the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It also has a similar texture and flavor when cooked.
egg noodles - Substitute with pasta shells: Pasta shells can be a great substitute for egg noodles in this recipe, as they hold the sauce well and provide a different texture to the dish.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to the dish.
cottage cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor to the dish.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for sharp cheddar, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.
Presenting the Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a rectangular or oval plate to showcase the layers of the dish, ensuring each component is visible and well-arranged.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbaceous flavor to the overall presentation.
Incorporate a sauce drizzle: Create an artistic sauce drizzle on the plate using a small squeeze bottle. This adds a professional touch to the presentation and allows for a controlled and precise application of the sauce.
Use high-quality serving utensils: Opt for sleek and polished serving utensils to elevate the dining experience. Consider using stainless steel or polished silver utensils that complement the sophistication of the dish.
Emphasize layering: Highlight the layers of the Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake by carefully arranging each component to create a visually appealing presentation. Ensure that the layers are distinct and well-defined for an impressive visual impact.
Consider individual ramekins: For a personalized touch, consider serving the Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake in individual ramekins. This individual plating adds a touch of elegance and allows for a more intimate dining experience.
Accentuate with microgreens: Sprinkle a delicate arrangement of microgreens on top of the dish to add a pop of color and a subtle, fresh flavor. The vibrant greens will provide a visually striking contrast against the rich, golden-brown tones of the bake.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a visually striking presentation. Allow the dish to stand out by strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, drawing attention to the artful arrangement of the Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake.
How To Store and Freeze Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Allow the beefy sour cream noodle bake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the noodle bake. You can either freeze the entire casserole or divide it into individual portions:
- To freeze the whole casserole, wrap the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the name and date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To freeze individual portions, cut the cooled casserole into serving-sized pieces and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label and date the containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen beefy sour cream noodle bake, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or bake it directly from frozen:
- If thawed, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- If frozen, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
When reheating individual portions, microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover beefy sour cream noodle bake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be sure to stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a crispy top layer, you can reheat the beefy sour cream noodle bake in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the dish is heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the casserole and achieve a crispy top layer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the leftover beefy sour cream noodle bake in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through and the top is crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the casserole with a food thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. This will help prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure that your leftover beefy sour cream noodle bake is just as delicious as when it was first made.
Random Fact about Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
The Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake recipe is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of cheese, spices, and even vegetables. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. It's a great make-ahead meal and leftovers taste even better the next day. Plus, it's a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on flavor. Whether you're hosting a potluck or simply craving a hearty meal, this Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Is This Noodle Bake Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This beefy sour cream noodle bake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground beef and egg noodles are affordable staples, while the addition of sour cream and cottage cheese adds richness without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. The hearty and satisfying nature of this dish also makes it a great value for the price. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors.
Is This Beefy Noodle Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?
The beefy sour cream noodle bake recipe is a hearty and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to its high content of saturated fat and calories. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional aspects:
- High in saturated fat: The recipe includes ground beef, sour cream, cottage cheese, and a significant amount of cheddar cheese, all of which are high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- Refined carbohydrates: The egg noodles used in the recipe are a source of refined carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- Protein-rich: On the positive side, the dish is rich in protein from the ground beef, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese, which can help with muscle building and repair.
- Lacks vegetables: The recipe does not include any vegetables, missing out on the opportunity to add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use lean ground beef (90% or higher) or substitute a portion of the beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives to reduce the saturated fat content
- Replace the egg noodles with whole grain pasta or zucchini noodles for added fiber and nutrients
- Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to increase the vitamin and mineral content
- Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese used or opt for a lower-fat cheese alternative
- Use low-fat sour cream and cottage cheese to further decrease the saturated fat content
- Serve the bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal and add more fiber
Editor's Thoughts on This Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake
This beefy sour cream noodle bake recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the richness of beef, the creaminess of sour cream and cottage cheese, and the gooeyness of cheddar cheese. The layers of flavors and textures create a delightful harmony, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy preparation, while the end result is a hearty and delicious meal that will surely become a favorite in any household.
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Why trust this Beefy Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious and comforting beefy sour cream noodle bake that has been carefully crafted to bring out the rich flavors of ground beef, tomato sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese. The combination of sour cream and cottage cheese creates a creamy and luscious texture, while the use of egg noodles provides a hearty base. The layers of ingredients are thoughtfully assembled to ensure each bite is packed with savory goodness. Trust in the simplicity and heartiness of this recipe to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
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