Welcome to a culinary journey that combines comfort with flavor in our delightful version of the Sour Cream noodle bake. This dish is not just any ordinary casserole; it’s an amalgamation of savory goodness, creamy textures, and a hint of nostalgia, making it a favorite in households seeking both simplicity and satisfaction. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or an experienced home chef, this recipe brings a homely touch that’s both heartwarming and downright delectable, promising to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Growing up, Sundays in our household meant gathering around the kitchen table for a big family meal. My mom cherished old family recipes, and it felt like a mini-celebration whenever she baked. One such cherished dish was her rendition of the noodle bake with sour cream. As aromatic wafts filled the kitchen, we knew a treat awaited us. To this day, the simple blend of noodles and sour cream evokes memories of laughter, warmth, and togetherness. It’s a recipe I now proudly share with my children, hoping they too will cherish it in the years to come.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a testament to the comfort of home-cooked meals. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this dish.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite meats or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Its rich, creamy texture makes it a hit among both children and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply bake before dinner for a hassle-free meal.
Ingredients Notes
Understanding your ingredients can elevate this bake from tasty to unforgettable. Here are some insights:
- Pasta: Opt for egg noodles, which hold the creamy sauce well. You can substitute with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream gives the best creaminess, but low-fat works too if you’re watching calories.
- Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds depth. Replace with gouda or swiss for a richer flavor.
- Ground Meat: Beef is traditional, but turkey or chicken are excellent lean alternatives.
- Tomato Sauce: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought for the best flavors. Add a pinch of sugar to cut acidity if needed.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures an even cooking environment and prevents sticking.
Step 2
Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Undercooking slightly prevents mushy pasta after baking.
Step 3
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add minced garlic, onions, and bell peppers; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Step 4
Mix the tomato sauce with a teaspoon of Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Combine with the cooked meat mixture and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5
Layer the noodles in the baking dish, followed by the Meat Sauce, a dollop of sour cream, and shredded cheese. Repeat layers and finish with cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Storage Options
Leftovers are a blessing in disguise, and this bake stores wonderfully. Cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. For extended storage, freeze portions wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
Adapting this recipe to suit different needs can add new dimensions to its traditional charm:
- Low-Carb Option: Replace noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the meat for mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Spice It Up: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for a bit of a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile in its presentation. Serve it:
- As a hearty dinner accompanied by crisp garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- As a contribution to a potluck; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- During casual family get-togethers, allowing everyone to dig into a plate of warmth and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the dish fully covered with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to extend the baking time by 10 minutes.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a slightly tangier flavor with similar creaminess. Cream Cheese also works but adds a distinct, rich taste.
How can I prevent the dish from drying out? Ensure the casserole is tightly covered with foil during baking, and resist overcooking. If the dish appears dry, adding a splash of cream or milk before baking can help retain moisture.
Sour Cream Noodle Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 1 cup sour cream light
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and cooked noodles.
- In a baking dish, layer the noodle mixture, beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
