If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings a burst of flavor and cozy vibes to your table, this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe will quickly become your new favorite go-to. Packed with savory ground beef simmered in rich tomato sauce, tender egg noodles mixed with creamy cottage and sour cheeses, and topped with bubbly melted cheddar, it’s the perfect blend of textures and tastes that come together in a beautifully layered casserole. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful with ingredients you likely already have at home. Each component plays an important role, from the juicy seasoned beef to the creamy cheese blend, making the final dish truly irresistible.
- Ground beef (2 pounds): The hearty protein base that makes this casserole so satisfying.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the beef.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Brings warm, aromatic notes that marry perfectly with the tomato sauce.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle sweetness and richness.
- Canned chopped tomatoes (2 cups): Offers a juicy, slightly tangy base for the savory sauce.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness and color.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a smooth sauce.
- Egg noodles (8 ounces): Tender and perfect for soaking up the cheesy and meaty layers.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the noodle mixture.
- Cottage cheese (2 cups): Brings a mild, fresh creaminess that enriches the casserole.
- Chopped green onions (1 cup): Introduces a fresh, slightly sharp contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): The crowning glory for melty, golden goodness.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, creating the perfect environment to bring all the flavors together later. While the oven warms up, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, making sure it’s completely browned—that rich, caramelized surface is key to flavor!
Step 2: Seasoning and Simmering the Meat Sauce
After browning, drain any excess fat for a leaner dish. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring everything so the seasonings coat the meat evenly. Add your canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and a pinch of sugar. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a savory, appetizing sauce.
Step 3: Cooking the Egg Noodles
While the meat simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until tender but still firm. Drain them well and prepare for the next step where they meet the creamy cheese mixture.
Step 4: Combining Noodles with Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, blend together the sour cream, cottage cheese, and chopped green onions to create a luscious, tangy coating for the noodles. Toss the drained egg noodles gently in this mixture so each noodle is wrapped in creamy goodness—this step ramps up the luscious texture that makes the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 5: Layering the Casserole
Grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and start by spreading half of the cheesy noodle mixture evenly on the bottom. Next, layer half of the flavorful meat sauce on top. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this. Then, repeat the layering with the remaining noodle mixture, meat sauce, and top off with the last cup of cheddar cheese. This layering is what builds the casserole’s delightful harmony of flavors.
Step 6: Baking to Melty Perfection
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and golden on top. Once it’s out, give it a 5-minute rest—you want it just cool enough to hold its shape but warm enough to be comforting with every forkful.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra green onions on top right before serving will bring a fresh pop of color and subtle brightness to the dish, making each plate look inviting and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads tossed with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to cut through the richness and round out the meal with some crisp freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions scooped into shallow bowls for a cozy, family-style vibe. Alternatively, you can garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a side of garlic bread to enhance the experience and make your dinner feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This casserole keeps well, and flavors develop even more deeply after resting.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without losing taste or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or in the microwave for a quicker option—just be sure to cover it to retain moisture and prevent drying out. The cheese will melt freshly again, and you’ll be ready to enjoy it like new!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides great flavor and melting quality, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra gooeyness or a blend like Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the regular egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure your tomato products and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness.
Can I add vegetables to the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions. Just sauté them lightly before mixing with the beef to keep the texture perfect.
How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef sauce or stir in some diced jalapeños with the green onions in the cheese mixture. Adjust to your preferred heat level!
What is the best way to reheat without the noodles getting mushy?
Reheat gently in the oven rather than the microwave if you can. Cover the dish with foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying but keep an eye so it doesn’t overcook, preserving that ideal noodle texture.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is truly a labor of love in the easiest way possible. With its rich layers, creamy textures, and satisfying flavors, it’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, gather around the table, and savor every comforting bite. I highly recommend giving it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again for friends and family who will be asking for seconds.
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles mixed with a creamy blend of sour cream and cottage cheese, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This oven-baked casserole is perfect for family dinners, combining robust tomato flavors with cheesy richness for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups canned tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Noodle Mixture
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup chopped green onions
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned to ensure it is cooked through.
- Drain Fat: Drain excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Season Beef: Season the browned beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer Sauce: Add chopped canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar to the beef mixture, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook Noodles: While the beef simmers, boil the egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions until tender, then drain.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together sour cream, cottage cheese, and chopped green onions thoroughly.
- Combine Noodles and Cream: Add the drained noodles to the sour cream mixture and stir to coat the noodles evenly.
- Layer Casserole (First Layer): In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the noodle mixture, then layer half of the meat mixture on top, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Layer Casserole (Second Layer): Repeat the layering with the remaining noodle mixture, meat mixture, and top with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set for easier slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like basil or oregano to the beef mixture.
- Use low-fat sour cream and cottage cheese to reduce calories and fat.
- Adding a bit of crushed red pepper can give the casserole a mild kick.
- Make sure to drain the noodles well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
