If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe. It brings together tender ground beef simmered in rich tomato flavors, layered perfectly with creamy noodles and a blend of three luscious cheeses. Every bite bursts with familiar tastes, making it a family-friendly favorite that’s easy to prepare yet impressively satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this casserole delivers pure joy from first forkful to last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen. Each brings a unique note, whether it’s the luscious tang of tomato paste or the creamy texture from sour cream, all harmonizing to create a memorable, layered meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that provides savory richness and hearty texture.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds juicy brightness and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: Gives a zesty kick and vibrant color to the sauce.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential to bring out all the flavors fully.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: Imparts a gentle savory aroma to the beef mixture.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: A classic complement that enhances the overall savory profile.
- 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and deepens its tomato flavor.
- 1 (6-oz) package medium egg noodles: Tender, chewy noodles that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the tomato’s acidity.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, robust flavor and melty texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty kick that elevates every bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey stretchiness and creamy richness on top.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to ensure your masterpiece won’t stick and will come out perfectly baked every time. This simple prep makes a big difference in the final presentation.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef until it’s browned through and not a hint of pink remains. This step builds the base of rich flavor. Once done, drain off any excess fat for a cleaner taste and to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
Step 3: Create the Savory Tomato Sauce
Now comes the flavorful layering: stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, the Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and tomato paste. Each ingredient adds depth – the chilies bring a subtle heat, and the tomato paste thickens the sauce beautifully. Lower the heat and let this simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
While your sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just tender. They should be perfectly cooked to soak up all that savory tomato and cheese goodness once combined.
Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sour Cream
Drain the noodles well and stir them together with the sour cream for that wonderful, creamy texture you’re craving. This step turns the noodles into a luscious, velvety base that contrasts so nicely with the zesty meat sauce.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Spread the creamy noodles evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. Spoon the robust beef and tomato sauce on top, then sprinkle an even layer of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses over everything. The combination of three cheeses is what truly makes the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe shine – creamy, sharp, nutty, and gooey all at once.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish and bake for 35 minutes, then uncover and let it bake for an additional 5 minutes. This last step allows the cheese to bubble up and brown just right, creating an irresistible golden crust that beckons everyone to dig in.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh touch to the hearty casserole, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil just before serving. These vibrant herbs lift the dish with their bright color and hint of freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese and beef.
Side Dishes
For sides, consider a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. These lighter sides complement the dense, cheesy casserole perfectly, adding a refreshing crunch and a pop of garden-fresh flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to wow your guests, serve the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes. This personal touch feels cozy and special, making each portion look as inviting as it tastes. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top right before serving for a little extra savory sparkle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Lombardi Casserole stays delicious for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes meal prep a breeze for busy weeks.
Reheating
To bring your leftover Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe back to life, reheat in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and soak up the sauce nicely, penne or rotini work well, too. Just be sure to cook them until al dente so they hold their shape during baking.
Is this recipe very spicy because of the green chilies?
The green chilies add a mild, pleasant heat rather than overwhelming spiciness. If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute with plain diced tomatoes or reduce the amount of Rotel used.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and lentils to maintain the hearty texture and flavor.
What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have all three kinds?
Cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella each bring something special, but if you have to pick two, cheddar and mozzarella make a great melty combo. Parmesan can be left out or sprinkled on top at serving.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
Try using lean ground beef or ground turkey, and swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt. You can reduce the cheese amounts as well or use lower-fat varieties to lighten the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe has a special way of turning an ordinary dinner into a memorable event. The layers of flavors, the cozy mix of cheeses, and the comforting warmth all come together in a dish that invites you to linger over seconds. I hope you give it a try soon and feel the same delight I always do when taking that very first savory bite.
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef simmered with tomatoes and spices, layered over creamy egg noodles and topped with a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines rich flavors and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
Pasta and Dairy
- 1 (6-oz) package medium egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Once cooked, drain off the excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies with their juice, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and tomato paste into the browned beef.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat and let the meat mixture simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain them well to avoid excess water in the casserole.
- Mix Noodles and Sour Cream: Combine the cooked egg noodles with sour cream, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy noodle base.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sour cream and noodle mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Spoon the meat sauce evenly over the noodles, then sprinkle the cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to brown and melt the cheese topping.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the ground beef well after browning to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
- Simmering the sauce helps develop richer flavors; don’t skip this step.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist and added protein.
- Feel free to use a mix of cheeses according to your preference for the topping.
- This casserole freezes well—cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
