Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving something that wraps you in a warm, comforting hug and satisfies dinner cravings all at once, this Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together tender ground beef, creamy sour cream, and the cozy familiarity of egg noodles baked beneath a golden crust of cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs. Every bite bursts with creamy, savory flavors that feel like home, making it the perfect weeknight dinner that’s both effortless to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but play essential roles in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish stand out. From savory beef to melty cheese, each element contributes to a comforting casserole experience.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that provides rich flavor and protein.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a savory depth to the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade): Gives the casserole a luscious, creamy texture and umami notes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tangy creaminess that brightens and balances the richness.
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained: Soft, tender noodles that soak up all the saucy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding a sharp and gooey finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the flavor without extra chopping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef): Helps brown the beef and onion perfectly while adding richness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Added for a cheesy topping that bakes golden and bubbly.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch): Adds a delightful crispy texture contrast on top.
How to Make Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but still holding their shape. Drain them well and set them aside — these noodles are the comforting foundation of your casserole, so don’t overcook!
Step 2: Brown the beef and onions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat apart with your spoon. Let it cook until the beef is beautifully browned and the onions turn soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy, then get ready to infuse the mix with creamy yumminess.
Step 3: Prepare the casserole mixture
To that skillet full of savory beef and onion, stir in your cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so all those flavors have a chance to meld into a luscious, creamy goodness.
Step 4: Combine with noodles
Pour the cooked egg noodles into your skillet and stir to combine every noodle with that irresistible creamy beef mixture. Once everything is evenly mixed, transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out smoothly so that every bite will have that perfect balance.
Step 5: Add the topping
Sprinkle a generous 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface. If you like an extra touch of crunch, add breadcrumbs on top—they bake into a golden, crispy crown that adds another layer of texture.
Step 6: Bake
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The aroma alone will make your mouth water.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Let your Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This brief resting time helps everything set just right, making it easier to serve and even more delicious when you dig in.
How to Serve Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe

Garnishes
A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions on top adds a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also add a dollop of extra sour cream on each serving for a tangy finish that will delight your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed veggies, or roasted Brussels sprouts. A light side balances the creamy richness of the casserole without competing, making your meal complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving small portions in individual ramekins for a charming presentation perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Alternatively, top with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to elevate the dish for a special occasion or weekend treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to deepen overnight, making the next-day serving just as delicious.
Freezing
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Just cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or placing in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for a quick and comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a faster option. Adding a splash of milk or extra sour cream can help revive the creamy texture during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Absolutely! While cream of mushroom adds great flavor and creaminess, cream of chicken or cream of celery are also excellent substitutes that keep the casserole moist and tasty.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles and gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs entirely for a naturally gluten-free meal.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
You sure can! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe and creates a lighter version without sacrificing flavor, just keep in mind cooking times may be slightly shorter.
How can I make this casserole more vegetable-packed?
Adding chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in with the beef and onions is a great way to sneak in extra veggies. Just sauté them along with the onions for best results.
Can I prepare this dish entirely ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole as directed but don’t bake it yet. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then bake as usual when you’re ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a hug from the inside out. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but comforting and flavorful enough to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try soon, and I promise you’ll find yourself making it again and again—there’s just something about that creamy, cheesy goodness that never gets old.
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Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish combining savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich mushroom soup sauce finished with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this easy-to-make casserole brings together simple ingredients in a flavorful bake that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook while breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prepare the casserole mixture: Stir the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream into the skillet with the browned beef and onions. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine with noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet and stir to evenly combine all ingredients. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole’s surface. Optionally, add breadcrumbs on top to provide a crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, comforting beef noodle casserole warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with homemade mushroom sauce for a fresher taste.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but add a nice crunchy texture on top when baked.
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat sour cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top before serving can add a burst of freshness and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American