Beef Lombardi Casserole
This Beef Lombardi Casserole combines hearty ground beef, a creamy tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese for a layered dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia.
I first made this casserole on a whim when we were hosting family for dinner. It quickly became a favorite, with everyone raving about the rich flavors and cheesy goodness. My husband now requests it whenever we need a cozy dinner, and even my picky eaters love every bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a plate.
Why You’ll Love Beef Lombardi Casserole
•Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
•Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready.
•Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or casual family dinners.
•Balanced Flavors: Creamy, cheesy, and savory with a hint of tang.
Ingredients Notes for Beef Lombardi Casserole
•Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but ground turkey can be substituted.
•Tomato Sauce: A rich base for the sauce—use your favorite brand.
•Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: Add creaminess to the casserole layers.
•Pasta: Elbow macaroni or rotini works well; cook until just al dente.
•Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a combination of cheeses for melty goodness.
•Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning enhance the flavor.
Recipe Steps
1.Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2.Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3.Mix the Creamy Layer: In a bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of garlic powder until smooth.
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4.Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer cooked pasta, creamy mixture, beef sauce, and shredded cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
5.Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6.Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Storage Options
•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
•Freezer: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
•Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
•Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meat crumbles or extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
•Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef sauce.
•Pasta Swap: Use penne, ziti, or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
•Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or onions to the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby can work beautifully.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
A: Elbow macaroni and rotini are great choices as they hold the sauce well.
This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s cheesy, comforting, and perfect for sharing!
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Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Noodle Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles and sour cream. Spread the noodle mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly over the noodle layer. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
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