Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for busy weeknights. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, cheesy pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this casserole is like a cross between a lasagna and a beefy pasta bake. It’s loaded with flavor, easy to make, and even better when served the next day. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare the classic Beef Lombardi Casserole, along with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas to make it your new go-to meal!

Ready to dig into this savory, cheesy casserole? Let’s get started!

What Is Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a baked pasta dish made with layers of seasoned ground beef, noodles, and a creamy, cheesy mixture. It gets its name from its rich combination of flavors, similar to hearty Italian dishes but with a twist of comfort-food goodness. This casserole is perfect for busy families or those who like to meal prep, as it can easily be made ahead of time or frozen for later use. It’s also a great dish to take to potlucks or gatherings, as it feeds a crowd and is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

For the Beef Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or any short pasta)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

These ingredients serve about 6-8 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or for leftovers throughout the week.

Substitutions and Variations

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is flexible and can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitution ideas and variations:

• Ground Beef: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese: If you prefer, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Ricotta can also be used in place of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
• Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but any short pasta, like penne, rotini, or ziti, will work just as well.
• Tomatoes: For a spicier version, use fire-roasted tomatoes or add extra diced green chilies. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
• Vegetables: Add in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking that all canned goods (like diced tomatoes) are gluten-free.

Feel free to experiment and customize the recipe to fit your family’s tastes!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process for this Beef Lombardi Casserole. It’s simple to make and bakes in less than an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Beef Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together and season with chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.

Let the beef mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer the casserole. Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.

Next, spread half of the beef sauce over the noodles, followed by half of the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat the layers—noodles, beef sauce, and cheese mixture—until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, then serve and enjoy!

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

Here’s a quick overview of the essential steps to make Beef Lombardi Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven and cook the egg noodles.
2. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add tomatoes and seasonings.
3. Mix the sour cream, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese to make the creamy layer.
4. Layer the noodles, beef sauce, and cheese mixture in a casserole dish.
5. Bake until golden and bubbly, then let the casserole rest before serving.

This easy step-by-step process ensures that your casserole will come out perfectly every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

1. Overcooking the Noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles until al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
2. Not Draining the Beef: Be sure to drain any excess grease from the beef after browning, or your casserole might turn out greasy.
3. Forgetting to Let It Rest: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a filling, hearty dish that pairs well with simple sides. Here are some serving ideas to round out the meal:

• Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or crusty French bread to soak up any extra sauce.
• Pair with Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots make great side dishes for this casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Lombardi Casserole

For an attractive presentation, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top of the casserole before serving. You can also add a little extra shredded cheese right before serving for that perfect gooey cheese pull when you slice into it.

Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Instead, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground crumbles or extra beans (like black beans or pinto beans).

Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Absolutely! Beef Lombardi Casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta will work for this casserole. Penne, rotini, or ziti are good alternatives if you don’t have egg noodles on hand.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions. You can add a little extra cheese on top before reheating for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its layers of seasoned beef, tender noodles, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that delivers both flavor and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making it ahead of time or serving it fresh out of the oven, this casserole is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. So grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal!

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