Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on

This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend kitchen tools, ingredients, and supplements we trust and use ourselves!

Advertisement

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:


Advertisement
IngredientQuantity
Lean Ground Beef1 lb
Yellow Onion (chopped)½
Garlic (minced)2 cloves
Tomato Sauce2 (15 oz cans)
Italian Seasoning1 teaspoon
Egg Noodles8 oz
Sour Cream1 cup
Cottage Cheese1 cup
Cheddar Cheese (grated)1 cup
Kosher SaltTo taste
Black PepperTo 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.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Sour Cream Beef Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews


Advertisement
  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6-8

Description

A hearty, cheesy casserole packed with layers of savory ground beef, creamy noodles, and melted cheddar. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or gatherings, this comforting dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • ½ yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  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. Remove from heat.
  2. Cook the Noodles:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set 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 evenly coated.
  4. Layer the Casserole:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
    • Spread half of the noodle mixture into the bottom of the 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 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!

 


Notes

  • Customize the cheese by using a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite varieties.
  • For added nutrients, mix in diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
  • This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
  • To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star