The Pioneer Woman’s Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender egg noodles with rich, cheesy layers and savory ground beef. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal. The creamy mixture of sour cream, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese paired with the robust flavor of seasoned ground beef makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the hearty base for the dish with its savory flavor and tender texture.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Adds a rich, tangy tomato flavor that complements the beef.
- 8 oz uncooked egg noodles: The perfect pasta choice for this casserole, offering a soft and tender texture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness of the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups small curd cottage cheese: Contributes a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the noodles.
- 1/3 cup green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated: Provides a bold, cheesy topping that melts beautifully.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef.
- Cook the beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
- While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and sliced green onions.
- Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the creamy mixture and gently fold them in until the noodles are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading half of the noodle mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Next, layer half of the beef and tomato sauce mixture on top of the noodles.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles and beef mixture.
- Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Sour Cream Noodle Bake hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions if desired.
Tips for the Best Sour Cream Noodle Bake
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef reduces the amount of grease in the dish, making it lighter and less oily.
- Substitute Ground Turkey: For a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella or even pepper jack can add a new flavor dimension to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
The Pioneer Woman’s Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a hearty dish that pairs well with:
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch and are a healthy complement to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
The Pioneer Woman’s Sour Cream Noodle Bake is the epitome of comfort food. With its layers of creamy noodles, savory beef, and melted cheese, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction every time. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your home!
