Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe: A Cozy Family Favorite

When hunger strikes, beef lombardi casserole emerges as a comforting solution for busy weeknight dinners.

Layers of pasta, ground beef, and rich tomato sauce create a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.

Cheese melts into every nook and cranny, promising incredible flavor in each bite.

Simple ingredients combine to make something truly spectacular.

Weeknight cooking becomes a breeze with this crowd-pleasing dish.

Home cooks can easily assemble this casserole without complex techniques or fancy equipment.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those moments when deliciousness matters most.

Tweak Your Amazing Beef Lombardi Casserole

  • Vegetarian Noodle Bake: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, maintaining the same seasoning and cooking technique for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Casserole: Swap egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles, ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Beef Skillet: Substitute noodles with cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables, keeping the rich beef and cheese flavors while reducing carbohydrate content.
  • Greek-Inspired Variation: Incorporate feta cheese instead of mozzarella, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Mediterranean-style transformation of the classic casserole.

Best Matches For Beef Lombardi Casserole

  • Pair Hearty Red Wine: Select a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the rich beef and tomato flavors, cutting through the creamy cheese with its tannic structure.
  • Serve Fresh Garden Salad: Create a crisp mixed green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the casserole's heaviness, adding brightness and refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
  • Complement with Crusty Bread: Offer warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying textural element alongside the casserole.
  • Enhance with Roasted Vegetables: Prepare simple roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add nutritional variety and vegetable freshness to the meal's overall profile.

Save Amazing Beef Lombardi Casserole With Ease

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying.

Beef Lombardi Casserole Questions Solved

  • Is Beef Lombardi Casserole similar to lasagna?

While both dishes feature ground beef and cheese, Beef Lombardi uses egg noodles instead of lasagna sheets, creating a different texture and flavor profile.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is an excellent lean protein substitute that works perfectly in this casserole, maintaining similar taste and texture.

  • What makes the casserole creamy?

The sour cream mixed into the beef and noodle mixture creates a rich, creamy texture that adds depth and smoothness to the dish.

  • Do I need any special cooking skills to make this recipe?

Not at all! This casserole is beginner-friendly and requires basic cooking techniques like browning meat and mixing ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

Beef Lombardi Casserole You’ll Crave Again

Beef Lombardi Casserole You’ll Crave Again
  • Craft a Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Meal: Ideal for family dinners and potluck gatherings, this Beef Lombardi Casserole delivers pure satisfaction with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: One-pan preparation means less cleanup and more time enjoying a hearty, protein-packed meal that combines tender beef, noodles, and melted cheese in every delightful bite.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or adjust seasonings to match your family's taste preferences without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.
  • Budget-Friendly Cooking: Featuring affordable ingredients like ground beef, noodles, and pantry staples, this casserole stretches your grocery budget while providing a filling and nutritious meal that feeds multiple people without breaking the bank.

Everything In Amazing Beef Lombardi Casserole

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that forms the main protein of this comforting casserole.
  • Egg Noodles: A classic pasta that provides a soft and satisfying base for the dish.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Sour Cream: Adds a creamy and tangy richness to the casserole.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creates a gooey and melty topping that brings the dish together.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp and salty flavor to enhance the overall taste.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onion, Garlic: These aromatic vegetables build a deep and savory flavor foundation.
  • Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce: Contribute a bright and tangy sauce that binds the ingredients.
  • Beef Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the casserole.
  • Oregano, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: A blend of herbs and spices that elevate the dish's flavor profile.
  • Fresh Parsley: A fresh herb for garnishing and adding a pop of color.

Cook Amazing Beef Lombardi Casserole Like A Champ

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F and get ready for some culinary magic.

Step 2: Brown The Beef

Toss ground beef into a large skillet and cook over medium heat until it transforms into a delicious golden-brown delight. Drain away any extra grease.

Step 3: Sauté The Aromatics

Introduce chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Let them dance and sizzle until the onions become translucent and release their irresistible fragrance.

Step 4: Create The Flavor Base

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato sauce
  • Beef broth
  • Oregano
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to mingle and develop.

Step 5: Cook The Noodles

Fold wide egg noodles into the skillet, stirring to ensure they’re well-coated. Let them soften for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Blend In Creamy Goodness

Remove the skillet from heat and swirl in sour cream until everything is smooth and harmonious.

Step 7: Prepare The Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly like a delicious blanket.

Step 8: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle generously with:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 9: Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese becomes bubbly and turns a gorgeous golden color.

Step 10: Serve And Garnish

Let the casserole rest briefly. Scatter fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish. Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips For Amazing Beef Lombardi Casserole Goodness

  • Drain Beef Thoroughly: Remove all excess fat from ground beef to prevent a greasy casserole and ensure a lighter, cleaner taste.
  • Choose Noodle Texture: Cook egg noodles slightly under al dente since they'll continue softening in the hot sauce and baking process.
  • Layer Cheese Strategically: Sprinkle mozzarella first, then top with Parmesan for a perfect golden-brown crispy cheese crust.
  • Control Moisture Balance: Use full-fat sour cream for richness and to prevent the casserole from becoming dry during baking.
  • Prep Ahead Wisely: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for enhanced flavor melding.
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Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets classic Southern cuisine in this hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole, combining ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce. Layers of melted cheese and savory seasonings create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef

Meat Broth:

  • 2 cups beef broth

Dairy Products:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta and Noodles:

  • 2 cups wide egg noodles

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato Base:

  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F, preparing a greased 9×13 inch baking dish for the casserole.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, thoroughly draining excess fat.
  3. Introduce chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until onions become translucent and aromatic.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and season with oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture gently.
  5. Incorporate wide egg noodles into the skillet, stirring to ensure even coating and partial cooking for approximately 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in sour cream until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated.
  7. Carefully transfer the beef and noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly across the surface.
  8. Generously layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
  10. Uncover the casserole and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
  11. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter version of the casserole.
  • For gluten-free option, swap egg noodles with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
  • Consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.
  • Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and minimize kitchen stress.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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