Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that makes for the perfect family dinner. This layered casserole combines seasoned ground beef, creamy sour cream, egg noodles, and plenty of cheese, baked to perfection for a warm and satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to prepare and makes great leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and common ingredients.
- Family-Friendly – A comforting, cheesy dish that everyone loves.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Easily prepared in advance and stored for later.
- Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Simmer: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Cook the noodles: Boil egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with melted butter.
- Mix the creamy layer: In a bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spread half of the buttered noodles in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer with half of the sour cream mixture.
- Add half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Use different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Add vegetables: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
- Low-carb option: Substitute zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Beef Lombardi Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, but egg noodles work best for their tender texture. You can substitute rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta.
What can I serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and reduced-fat dairy products.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover with foil while baking and avoid overcooking.
Can I add beans for extra protein?
Yes, black beans or kidney beans make a great addition.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the beef mixture, then layer all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch pans.
Conclusion
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its rich flavors, creamy layers, and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade casserole!
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Beef Lombardi Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a cheesy, comforting, and easy-to-make baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy sour cream layer. Perfect for family dinners and make-ahead meals!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Simmer: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Cook the noodles: Boil egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with melted butter.
- Mix the creamy layer: In a bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spread half of the buttered noodles in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer with half of the sour cream mixture.
- Add half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Use different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Add vegetables: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
- Low-carb option: Substitute zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Beef Lombardi Casserole, cheesy casserole, family dinner, easy baked pasta, ground beef recipe