Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - Egg noodles (12 ounces, uncooked)
02 - Ground beef (1 pound)
03 - Yellow onion (1, finely chopped)
04 - Garlic cloves (2 medium, minced)

→ Sauce & Seasonings

05 - Tomato sauce (15 ounce can)
06 - Diced tomatoes (15 ounce can, drained)
07 - Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)
08 - Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons)
09 - Red pepper flakes (to taste)
10 - Salt and pepper (to taste)

→ Creamy & Cheese Elements

11 - Sour cream (8 ounces)
12 - Small curd cottage cheese (8 ounces)
13 - Parmesan cheese (½ cup, shredded)
14 - Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
15 - Fresh parsley for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente, rinse with cold water, and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking
02 - Brown ground beef in a skillet, breaking into small pieces, then drain excess fat
03 - Add onion and garlic to the beef, sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes)
04 - Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes)
05 - In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked noodles
06 - In a 9x13 dish, layer half the pasta mixture, half the beef mixture, and half the cheddar. Repeat layers, finishing with cheddar on top
07 - Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles
08 - Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot

# Notes:

01 - Can be spiced up with jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat
02 - Add bacon bits for extra flavor
03 - Perfect make-ahead dish for family dinners
04 - Leftovers reheat well