Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe: A Hearty, Oven-Baked Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor. This oven-baked dish combines seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, all topped with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Ingredients

For the beef mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the pasta layer:

• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese

For topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
• Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.

2. Prepare the Pasta Layer

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with sour cream and cottage cheese. Stir until well coated.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Spread half of the noodle mixture in the bottom of the dish.
• Add half of the beef mixture over the noodles.
• Repeat with the remaining noodles and beef mixture.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.

4. Bake and Serve

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Change the cheese: Substitute ricotta for cottage cheese or use a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Vegetarian option: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work well in place of egg noodles.

Is there a lower-fat version?

Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat sour cream, and cottage cheese for a lighter option.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.

What can I serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole?

A fresh green salad and garlic bread pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, prepare two casseroles and freeze one for later.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, chop about 4 medium fresh tomatoes and use them in place of canned.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Slightly undercook them before assembling the casserole, as they will continue cooking in the oven.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the ingredients and cook on low for 3–4 hours.

What cheese melts best for this dish?

Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal, but Colby Jack or a Mexican blend also work well.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers bold flavors and a comforting, cheesy bite every time. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal!

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