introduction
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of savory beef, creamy noodles, and melted cheese. This casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. It’s filling, hearty, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
why make this recipe
You should make this Beef Lombardi Casserole because it is simple yet delicious. It combines everyday ingredients into a satisfying meal. Besides, it’s a perfect way to use up leftover noodles. Plus, this recipe is adaptable, making it a great option for any weeknight dinner or when you have guests over.
how to make Beef Lombardi Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 3 cups cooked noodles (such as egg noodles)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sour cream, and half of the cheese.
- Layer half of the noodle mixture in a greased casserole dish.
- Spread the beef mixture over the noodles, then top with the remaining noodle mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Serve hot.
how to serve Beef Lombardi Casserole
Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole hot right out of the oven. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of color. It pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread on the side.
how to store Beef Lombardi Casserole
To store any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat.
- You can mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped peppers to the beef mixture.
- If you like more cheese, feel free to add extra on top!
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with a plant-based protein or mushrooms. You can also use whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of cooked pasta you like, such as penne or bowtie.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!
Beef Lombardi Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Lean ground beef is recommended to reduce fat.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 3 cups cooked noodles (such as egg noodles) Any cooked pasta can be used, like penne or bowtie.
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) Feel free to add extra cheese on top for more flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped peppers for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sour cream, and half of the cheese.
Assembly
- Layer half of the noodle mixture in a greased casserole dish.
- Spread the beef mixture over the noodles, then top with the remaining noodle mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.