Sour Cream Meat Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring tender noodles, savory ground beef, and creamy sour cream with a cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sour cream, cream cheese, and chopped onion; set aside.
- Brown the ground beef with garlic salt, sugar, and salt; drain off fat.
- Add tomato sauce to the meat; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions.
- Grease a deep casserole dish.
- Layer cooked noodles, the sour cream mixture, and the meat mixture in the dish, starting and ending with noodles.
- Top with a thin layer of noodles and sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dash of milk to the sour cream mixture. If you're out of cream cheese, Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. To enhance the dish, sprinkle some Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Sour Cream Meat Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread for an extra touch. For a comforting dinner, you can also serve it with a side of Virginia's Chili for a hearty combo that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Meat Casserole contains roughly 653 calories, with 10g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, consider substituting the meat with lentils or a meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You could also use spicy sausage instead of hamburger for a zesty twist. Adding crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese topping can also enhance the heat level.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).