Noodles Romanoff

There’s a reason old-fashioned comfort food keeps finding its way back to the dinner table. Noodles Romanoff is a perfect example: tender egg noodles coated in a rich, creamy mixture of sour cream, cottage cheese, butter, and cheddar, then baked until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but comforting enough for a holiday meal or family gathering. With everyday ingredients and very little prep work, this creamy noodle casserole makes an excellent side for roast beef, chicken, pork, or steak.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting
Quick and straightforward to prepare
Makes an excellent family dinner side
Great for holidays, potlucks, and gatherings
Can be assembled ahead of time
Easy to customize with vegetables, herbs, bacon, or different cheeses

Ingredients

12 ounces wide egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 small garlic clove, minced or finely grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

For the creamiest result, full-fat sour cream and cottage cheese work especially well.

How to Make Noodles Romanoff

1. Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until just al dente.

Since the noodles will continue cooking in the oven, avoid making them overly soft. Drain well once they're ready.

2. Mix the Creamy Sauce

While the noodles cook, add the sour cream, cottage cheese, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika to a large mixing bowl.

Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

If you prefer a completely smooth sauce, you can blend the cottage cheese briefly before mixing it with the other ingredients.

3. Combine Everything

Add the drained noodles to the creamy mixture and gently toss until every noodle is coated.

Stir in about 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining cheese for the topping.

4. Prepare the Casserole

Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter.

Transfer the noodle mixture to the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top.

5. Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the edges are bubbling.

For a more golden, lightly browned topping, place the casserole under the broiler for a short time at the end. Keep a close eye on it because the cheese can brown quickly.

6. Let It Rest

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Noodles Romanoff

Don't Overcook the Pasta

Cooking the egg noodles only until they're tender helps prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.

Choose Full-Fat Dairy

Full-fat sour cream and cottage cheese generally create a richer and creamier casserole. Reduced-fat products can still be used, but the texture may be slightly less luxurious.