Name: Beef Lombardi Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked egg noodles; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a rich, comforting dish that combines the hearty goodness of ground beef, savory tomato sauce, creamy sour cream, and melty cheese, all layered with tender egg noodles. It’s the kind of meal that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing and have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

½ teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt & pepper to taste

2 cups cooked egg noodles

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

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

Directions

Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add Tomatoes & Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Prepare the Casserole Layers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the cooked egg noodles with sour cream until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer half of the noodle mixture on the bottom. Top with half of the beef sauce. Repeat the layers and then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake & Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve warm.

(Tip: If you want an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef sauce for a little spice!)

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. It takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, with 25 minutes of baking time.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or use extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.

Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the beef sauce for a spicy kick.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free if you’re following a gluten-free diet.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze this Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What can I serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. A slice of garlic bread would be an excellent addition for a more complete meal.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions before using it in the casserole.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, you can substitute about 4 medium tomatoes for the canned diced tomatoes. Just chop them finely and cook them down in the beef mixture until they break apart and create a sauce.

Conclusion

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is an easy, delicious, and comforting dish that everyone will love. The combination of savory beef, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese makes this a meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when I’m craving something cozy. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, I can enjoy a hearty meal that’s full of flavor every time.

Recipe:

Beef Lombardi Casserole

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A rich, comforting dish that combines ground beef, savory tomato sauce, creamy sour cream, melty cheese, and tender egg noodles, perfect for a cozy meal.