Description
A baked pasta-meets-cheeseburger casserole with tender noodles, rich tomato-meat sauce, and a creamy, tangy layer of cream cheese and sour cream. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or budget-friendly family dinners.
Ingredients
Base & Meat Sauce:
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8 oz egg noodles (or other short pasta)
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1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
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2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
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2 tsp garlic, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 tsp sugar
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¼ tsp salt
Creamy Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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8 oz sour cream
Optional Toppings / Variations:
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Shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan)
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Crushed crackers, panko, or potato chips for a crunchy top
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Veggies: onions, mushrooms, spinach, or diced green chiles
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Spices: crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat
Instructions
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Preheat & Cook Pasta:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook egg noodles according to package until al dente, drain, and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking. -
Brown the Beef:
Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain excess grease. -
Make Meat Sauce:
Stir in tomato sauce, garlic, Italian seasoning, sugar, and salt. Simmer 5–10 minutes to meld flavors. -
Prepare Creamy Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and lump-free. -
Assemble Casserole:
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer half the cooked noodles on the bottom.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
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Top with remaining noodles.
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Pour meat sauce over everything and spread evenly.
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Optional Topping:
Sprinkle shredded cheese or a crunchy topping if desired. -
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
Notes
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Make Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes if baking cold.
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Prevent Watery Casserole: Drain beef well and let casserole rest after baking.
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Freeze: Assemble unbaked, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake.
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Cream Cheese Substitute: Use ricotta (mix with 1 egg) or smooth cottage cheese.