Pioneer Woman Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Why You Will Like This

• Simple pantry ingredients that are easy to find.
• Rich, creamy layers with plenty of cheesy goodness.
• Great make-ahead meal for busy schedules.
• Freezes well for future dinners.
• Kid-friendly flavors that appeal to picky eaters.
• Perfect balance of savory meat sauce and creamy noodles.
• Ready in about an hour with minimal prep.
• Makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.

What Ingredients do I need for Sour Cream Noodle Bake?

• Ground Chuck  - Ground chuck can get expensive so use either ground beef or a flavorful pork sausage. Lean ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken can be used to make this lower calorie. 
• Tomato Sauce  -  When purchasing canned tomatoes, it is important to read the label and choose a product with no added salt or sugar if you are looking for a healthier option.
• Salt and Black Pepper   - to taste 
• Egg noodles -  or any spiral type of pasta 
• Sour Cream  - Regular or light to make lower calorie 
• Cottage Cheese  -  1% or 2% Can sub Ricotta cheese 
• Sharp Cheddar - Mild or Extra Sharp, sometimes I will use Colby Jack cheese 
• Green Onions - for garnish 
• See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements. 

How to make Sour Cream Noodle Bake Casserole  

Step 1 Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2 Brown the ground chuck in a large skillet. Drain the fat, and then add the tomato sauce, ½ teaspoon salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Stir, and then simmer while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3 Cook the egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4 In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Add plenty of freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add to the noodles and stir. Add the green onions and stir.

Step 5 To assemble, add half of the noodles to a baking dish. Top with half the meat mixture, and then sprinkle on half the grated Cheddar. Repeat with noodles, meat and then a final layer of cheese. Bake until all the cheese is melted, about 20 minutes.

Storage

Store leftover sour cream noodle bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through. Larger portions can be reheated in a 350 degree F oven, covered with foil to prevent the casserole from drying out.

This casserole also freezes very well. Wrap the fully baked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs well with simple side dishes that balance its rich and creamy flavors.

Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in your favorite vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Or try this Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins

Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every bit of the savory meat sauce.

Steamed broccoli, roasted green beans, asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts all make excellent vegetable side dishes.

For a complete comfort food meal, serve with a side of roasted carrots or a simple Caesar salad.