Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a comforting and satisfying casserole that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory ground beef and tangy tomato sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a delicious twist on traditional pasta bakes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, stirring until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and sour cream until smooth.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions and drain.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the noodles, half of the meat mixture, and half of the cottage cheese mixture.
7. Repeat the layers and sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture for some heat.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheese Variations: You can use ricotta cheese in place of cottage cheese or try mixing in some shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or shells instead of egg noodles.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
3. Can I use cream cheese instead of sour cream? Yes, cream cheese can be used as a substitute for sour cream, giving the dish a richer, creamier texture.
4. Can I freeze Sour Cream Noodle Bake? Yes, this dish can be frozen. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
5. How do I make this dish vegetarian? To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, like lentils or crumbled tofu, and add more vegetables.
6. Can I use a different cheese? Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Try adding mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
7. What can I serve this with? A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables would complement this dish nicely.
8. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming too soggy? Make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will soften further while baking. Drain them well before layering.
9. Can I use low-fat versions of the dairy ingredients? Yes, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese and sour cream to make a lighter version of this dish.
10. How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Noodle Bake is a rich and creamy casserole that brings together the classic flavors of pasta, beef, and cheese in a comforting, easy-to-make dish. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a perfect choice for a family dinner or a meal to feed a crowd. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, whether you’re looking to add vegetables, swap the meat, or try different cheeses. This bake is sure to be a hit at your table!

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