Name: Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small sweet onion, small diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 15 ounce can tomato sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 12 ounces egg noodles; 1 ½ cups small curd cottage cheese; ¾ cup sour cream; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole that just wraps around you like a warm hug. This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe hits that spot beautifully, with its rich sauce and tender noodles, making it a timeless family favorite.

A clear glass rectangular dish filled with three layers: the bottom layer is pale yellow cooked pasta, the middle layer contains dark brown cooked ground meat mixed with red tomato sauce, and the top layer is melted cheese in bright orange and white colors evenly spread across the dish. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember first making this Sour Cream Noodle Bake on a chilly weekend, craving something filling but not fussy. It quickly became a dish I turn to when I want a cozy, no-stress meal that pleases everyone at the table.

Comfort Food Classic: The creamy sour cream sauce paired with tender noodles and melted cheese is pure comfort in every bite.
Simple Ingredients: Chances are you have most of what you need right in your pantry and fridge—no complicated shopping required.
Easy to Customize: Whether you like it meaty, cheesy, or with a spicy twist, this recipe adapts to your tastes effortlessly.
Great for Busy Days: It’s a one-dish meal that can be thrown together quickly and bakes while you relax or prep other things.

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe brings together familiar ingredients that balance each other so well. The ground beef gives it hearty flavor, while the sour cream and cottage cheese add that silky, creamy texture. Here are some insights on each key ingredient to help you shop smart and cook confidently.

Flat lay of fresh ground beef in a small white ceramic bowl, a small white ceramic bowl of diced sweet onion, two whole uncracked brown garlic cloves, a small white ceramic bowl filled with smooth red tomato sauce, a small white ceramic bowl of salt, a small white ceramic bowl of black pepper, a small white ceramic bowl of golden uncooked egg noodles, a small white ceramic bowl of small curd cottage cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of creamy sour cream, a small white ceramic bowl of garlic powder, a small white ceramic bowl of onion powder, and a small white ceramic bowl heaped with shredded Colby Jack cheese, all arranged with perfect symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Ground Beef: Choose a lean to medium fat content for flavor without excess grease—browned until nicely caramelized adds depth.
Sweet Onion: Gives subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef and tangy tomato sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic wakes up the sauce with aromatic punch, which canned garlic just can’t match.
Tomato Sauce: Use a plain canned sauce for a clean base or swap for a favorite Italian pasta sauce to personalize flavors.
Egg Noodles: Their wide shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every forkful luscious.
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese adds creaminess while keeping the texture light and moist—ricotta can substitute but expect a slightly different texture.
Sour Cream: The secret creamy ingredient that makes this bake stand out with smooth tang and richness.
Colby Jack Cheese: Melts nicely and adds mild sharpness; feel free to try cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack if you want a twist.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge or what mood I’m in—sometimes swapping beef for sausage or adding a handful of spinach for a veggie boost. You can easily make it your own!

Meat Variations: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal, or spicy sausage if you want some kick—I did it once and the flavors popped beautifully.
Cheese Swap: I often substitute mozzarella for a milder, gooey melt or pepper jack when I want a little heat.
Vegetables: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce for warmth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

A close-up view of a glass baking dish filled with a layered cheesy casserole. The layers include ground meat with a brown color, melted pale yellow cheese dripping down, visible bits of white sauce, and chunks of a lighter filling. A silver spatula lifts a serving, showing the cheese stretching between the lifted portion and the dish. The background features green leaves blurred softly, and the dish rests on a white marbled surface with a white and blue towel nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Sizzle the Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef and diced onion. Break the beef up as it cooks, stirring occasionally. You'll want to cook until the beef loses its pink color and the onions become tender—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. This step infuses the base of your sauce with rich flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—you want that lovely aroma without burning it. Pour in the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. Stir it occasionally so nothing sticks to the pan and the flavors marry nicely.

Step 3: Cook and Coat the Noodles

While the sauce simmers, boil your egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder—this creamy blend is what makes the dish shine. Stir in the noodles to coat them evenly.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Spray your 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Layer half of the noodle mixture evenly in the bottom, then spoon half the meat sauce over it. Sprinkle half the shredded Colby Jack cheese on top. Repeat these layers once more. Pop the dish into the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping.

Top Tip

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving, but from my experience, attention to layering and seasoning really makes a difference. Here's what I've learned to help you get it just right every time.

Drain Noodles Well: Too much water can make the bake watery. After boiling, let the noodles drain completely before mixing.
Simmer Sauce Gently: A slow, gentle simmer deepens the flavors. Don’t rush this part; your patience pays off.
Layer Evenly: Distribute noodles, sauce, and cheese evenly in layers so every bite gets a perfect balance.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the bake sit for 5 minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe

sour cream noodle bake - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I like to finish this noodle bake with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. It adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that complements the creamy, cheesy richness. Sometimes I add a little extra cracked black pepper on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

To keep things balanced, I often serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley also pair beautifully, making the meal feel complete without overshadowing the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve baked individual portions in ramekins topped with a few extra cheese slices for a personal touch. Garnishing with a roasted red pepper ring or a drizzle of pesto can elevate the presentation too—perfect when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually pack leftover Sour Cream Noodle Bake in airtight containers and store them in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and every time I reheat, it tastes just as comforting as freshly baked.

Freezing

Freezing this bake works great for meal prep. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to keep it moist, for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If time is tight, microwave well-covered works too but I always prefer the oven for that fresh-baked texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. You might want to add extra seasoning for depth since meat adds richness.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

Ricotta cheese is the closest substitute, though it will make the bake slightly less creamy. Cream cheese blended with a bit of milk also works in a pinch.

Can I use other noodles besides egg noodles?

Yes! Wide pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even large shells hold the sauce well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and drain well before mixing.

How spicy is this Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe?

The basic recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you want to add some heat, consider using pepper jack cheese or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce when simmering.

Final Thoughts

This Sour Cream Noodle Bake Recipe is more than just a meal for me—it’s a cozy ritual that brings warmth to my kitchen and smiles to the table. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in baking and sharing it as I do. Trust me, once you have this in your regular rotation, it’ll become a go-to comfort dish you’ll want to make again and again.