Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 21, 2025

When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that bring the whole family together, nothing beats a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven. If you’re searching for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, look no further than this Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole. Packed with flavor and loaded with creamy layers, this recipe is bound to become your family’s new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole

This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:

Perfect for Busy Weeknights: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready with minimal effort.
A Crowd-Pleaser: It’s kid-approved and loved by adults, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
Rich and Flavorful: Every bite is a perfect balance of cheesy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Customizable: Add your own twist with extra veggies or spice for a personalized touch.

So, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just another Wednesday night, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients for Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of kitchen staples. Here’s a complete breakdown of the ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Lean Ground Beef	1 lb
Yellow Onion (chopped)	½
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Tomato Sauce	2 (15 oz cans)
Italian Seasoning	1 teaspoon
Egg Noodles	8 oz
Sour Cream	1 cup
Cottage Cheese	1 cup
Cheddar Cheese (grated)	1 cup
Kosher Salt	To taste
Black Pepper	To taste

Each ingredient plays a role in creating the rich, creamy, and savory layers that make this casserole unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Casserole

Creating this dish is as easy as layering ingredients and letting the oven work its magic. Follow these steps for a foolproof meal:

1. Prepare the Beef and Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened (about 10 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

2. Cook the Noodles

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the noodles and set them aside.

3. Combine the Dairy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Add the cooked egg noodles, then season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Spread half of the noodle mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining noodles and sauce to create two layers.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation with your loved ones!

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole

Want to elevate this dish to the next level? Keep these tips in mind:

Cheese Selection: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Variations of the Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole

This casserole is endlessly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free noodles and ensure all other ingredients (like tomato sauce) are labeled gluten-free.

Vegetarian Option

Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or diced zucchini for a veggie-packed alternative.

Mexican-Inspired Twist

Swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

What sides go well with this dish?

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt way to bring people together. The creamy layers, savory beef, and bubbly cheese create a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug. Whether you’re sharing it with family or bringing it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into the deliciousness of this family-favorite casserole. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below – your feedback might inspire someone else to create their own version of this beloved dish!

For a printable version of this recipe, bookmark this page or save the table above for easy reference.

Melany