Cheesy Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Looking for a comforting dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners?  This Cheesy Sour Cream and Noodle Bake is just what you need!  

With layers of tender noodles, a rich and creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults.  Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time, making it a great option for busy evenings or meal prep.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Comfort Food Classic:  This dish brings together all the elements of comfort food-cheese, pasta, and creamy sauce, into one delicious bake.  
• Family Friendly:  Kids love the cheesy goodness, and it's easy to sneak in some veggies for added nutrition.
• Make Ahead Friendly:  Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you're ready for dinner, making it a stress-free meal on busy nights.  
• Customizable:  Add in your favorite proteins or veggies to make this dish your own.  

INGREDIENTS:

For this Cheesy Sour Cream and Noodle Bake Recipe you will need to gather some simple ingredients:

• 2 lb Ground Beef
• 1 (8 oz) of Egg Noodles
• 1 jar of Marinara Sauce
• 2 cups Sour Cream
• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp. Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 1/2 cups Green Onions, Chopped
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, Shredded

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven:  Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C.
2. Cook the Noodles:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.  Drain and set aside.  
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:  In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.  Drain any excess fat.  Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.  Stir in the marinara sauce with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix the Cheesy Layer:  In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and ricotta cheese.  Add the chopped green onions with a little salt and pepper.  Mix until smooth.  
5. Assemble the Casserole:  In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, add the meat sauce, cheese mixture, and cooked noodles.  Mix everything together.  Top with shredded cheese.  Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.  Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.  
6. Serve:  Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.  Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.  

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Make It Healthier:  Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, and use lean ground turkey instead of beef.  
• Add Vegetables:  Stir in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.  
• Double the Recipe:  This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch and saving one for later.
• Cheese Options:  Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or Monterey jack, to suit your taste preferences.  

FAQs:

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely!  You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge.  When you're ready to bake just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.  

How do I freeze this casserole?

To freeze, assemble the casserole but don't bake it.  Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.  When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.  

Can I use a different a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or ziti.  

This Cheesy Sour Cream and Noodle Bake is the ultimate comfort food that your whole family will love.  Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead for an easy meal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.  Give it a try and watch it disappear from the dinner table!

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~