Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd? Look no further than this Beef Lombardi Casserole! This flavorful casserole layers ground beef, tomatoes, egg noodles, a creamy cheese mixture, and more, creating a dish that’s rich, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite on your dinner rotation. Keep reading for the full recipe, substitutions, and helpful tips for perfecting your Beef Lombardi Casserole!

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What Is Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a layered dish that combines seasoned ground beef with rich tomato sauce, creamy noodles, and plenty of cheese. Think of it as a cross between lasagna and baked spaghetti but with a creamy, cheesy twist. The dish is typically made by layering ground beef in a seasoned tomato sauce with cooked egg noodles mixed with a creamy cheese blend. Everything is baked together until bubbly and golden, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving comfort food.

Ingredients List for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Beef Lombardi Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• ½ cup water
• 2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups cooked)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is easy to customize, so here are some great substitution and variation ideas:

• Protein options: Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter or different flavor.
• Cheese alternatives: While cheddar and mozzarella are commonly used, you can swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack (for added spice), or even Gouda.
• Noodle alternatives: You can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti if you don’t have egg noodles. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes if you want a little more heat.

These substitutions make it easy to cater the recipe to your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s go through the step-by-step instructions for making this tasty Beef Lombardi Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 6-8 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chilies, water, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.

To assemble the casserole, first, layer half of the cooked egg noodles in the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the beef and tomato mixture over the noodles. Then, dollop half of the creamy cheese mixture over the beef layer. Repeat these layers, using the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and creamy cheese mixture.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot!

How to Cook Beef Lombardi Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick overview of the process for making this Beef Lombardi Casserole:

1. Cook the egg noodles and drain.
2. Brown the ground beef with onions, then add garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings, and simmer.
3. Mix the creamy cheese filling using sour cream, cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the casserole: Layer noodles, beef mixture, and cheese mixture in a greased baking dish.
5. Top with cheese and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden.
6. Garnish and serve with fresh parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Beef Lombardi Casserole:

• Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente, as they’ll continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Not seasoning the beef mixture: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning in the beef mixture. The rich tomato sauce needs enough salt, pepper, and spices to balance out the creamy layers.
• Skipping the foil: Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking ensures the cheese doesn’t over-brown or dry out too quickly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautifully presented!

How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole

Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for serving a crowd at a family dinner or potluck event.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Lombardi Casserole

• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to this rich dish.
• Serve in neat portions: Cut the casserole into even squares and plate individually for a more polished presentation.
• Add a side: Pair the casserole with a colorful side salad or roasted vegetables to brighten up the meal.

Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your Beef Lombardi Casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Add more veggies: You can easily add more nutrition by sneaking in extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the beef mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you want a leaner version of this casserole.

2. Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking, or bake straight from frozen by adding an additional 20-30 minutes to the baking time.

3. How long does Beef Lombardi Casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

4. Can I make Beef Lombardi Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta of your choice, and make sure your canned ingredients (like tomatoes and tomato paste) are gluten-free.

5. How do I reheat Beef Lombardi Casserole?
You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese mixture, and tender egg noodles, this casserole is a rich, filling meal that the whole family will love. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and great for leftovers or meal prep.

So, gather your ingredients and give this delicious Beef Lombardi Casserole a try tonight! You won’t be disappointed!

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