Mediterranean Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
Mediterranean Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is a comforting, family style dish that blends classic American casserole warmth with Mediterranean touches like olive oil, herbs, and gentle spices. It is creamy without being heavy, hearty without feeling greasy, and simple enough for busy weeknights. Tender noodles are layered with savory ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato, and a tangy sour cream sauce that ties everything together. Baked until lightly golden, this casserole delivers familiar comfort with a fresher, more balanced flavor profile. It is perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prep, or making ahead for stress free dinners.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients
For the Beef Sauce:
500 g ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
300 g egg noodles or short pasta
1½ cups sour cream
1 cup grated mozzarella or mild cheddar
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly.
In a bowl, gently mix sour cream with half of the mozzarella and parmesan.
Layer half the noodles, half the beef, and half the sour cream mixture in the dish. Repeat layers, finish with remaining cheese, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Tips
Cook noodles just until al dente so they do not become mushy when baked.
Let the beef sauce cool slightly before mixing with sour cream to prevent curdling.
Use full fat sour cream for the creamiest texture.
Olive oil adds a lighter, Mediterranean richness compared to butter.
Do not overbake or the casserole may dry out.
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Rest the casserole before serving to help it set cleanly.
Season each layer lightly for balanced flavor.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving brightens the dish.
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms to the beef for extra depth.
Replace beef with ground turkey or lamb.
Add spinach or chopped zucchini for vegetables.
Use Greek yogurt for half of the sour cream for a lighter version.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Add olives or sun dried tomatoes for Mediterranean flair.
Swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy finish.
Turn it into individual portions using ramekins.
Top with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil for crunch.
Questions and Answers
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to one day ahead and bake before serving.
Does sour cream curdle when baked?
Not if mixed properly and baked at moderate heat.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked for up to one month.
What noodles work best?
Egg noodles or short pasta shapes hold the sauce well.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mild, but spice can be added easily.
Can I make it gluten free?
Yes, use gluten free pasta.
How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Can I use low fat sour cream?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly less creamy.
What should I serve with it?
A green salad or roasted vegetables pair well.
Is this kid friendly?
Yes, it is soft, creamy, and familiar in flavor.
Nutrition
(Per Serving Approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. It is warm, filling, and comforting, yet lighter and more balanced than traditional casseroles thanks to olive oil, herbs, and simple ingredients. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for gatherings and meal prep. This is comfort food made practical, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.