Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Intensity: Moderate

Description

This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy sour cream sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and delicious.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) egg noodles

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

• 2 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Cook Noodles

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Boil egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Beef & Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme.

2. Mix well and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Noodles & Beef Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles and the beef mixture. Stir until evenly coated.

2. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Topping (Optional)

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

2. For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

2. For a golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch carefully).

Step 7: Serve

1. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra sour cream if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with mushrooms or lentils.

• Gluten-Free: Use GF noodles and GF cream of mushroom soup.

• Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup cream cheese to the sauce.

• Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze (without breadcrumb topping) for up to 2 months.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave until hot.

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This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a delicious, filling meal that’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Try it today and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!