Beef Lombardi Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting & Hearty – A warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a hassle-free meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly – A cheesy pasta dish that the whole family will enjoy.
• Freezer-Friendly – Prepare in advance and freeze for an easy future meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat.
3. Make the Sauce – Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Pasta Mixture – In a bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole – Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake – Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish & Serve – Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
• Low-Carb Version – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Different Cheese – Try Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist.
• Protein Boost – Add cooked sausage or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles work best, you can use penne, rotini, or macaroni.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add an extra ½ cup of sour cream or mix in a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.

What side dishes go well with Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this dish.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, then add the cheese and cook for another 15 minutes until melted.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Slightly undercook the pasta before baking so it holds its texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, adding creaminess with extra protein.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure there’s enough sauce and don’t overbake it. If needed, add a splash of broth before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or potlucks. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal the whole family will love!

Beef Lombardi Casserole

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course, Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

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Description

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, tender pasta, and melty cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or potlucks. A satisfying family favorite that’s freezer-friendly and absolutely delicious!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Cook the Beef Mixture – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat.
• Make the Sauce – Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
• Prepare the Pasta Mixture – In a bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated.
• Assemble the Casserole – Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
• Bake – Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish & Serve – Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy!

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Notes

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
• Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.