Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the flavors of hearty beef, rich cheeses, and the satisfying texture of egg noodles. This casserole combines layers of deliciousness, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights. With its warm, inviting aromas and the ease of preparation, it’s no wonder that this dish has won the hearts of many home cooks.
Why We Love This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
One of the standout features of Beef Lombardi Casserole is its versatility. You can prepare it with ground beef, turkey, or even chicken, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences. The combination of creamy noodles and flavorful beef creates a dish that’s not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. Additionally, it comes together quickly, allowing you more time to spend with your family or friends while it bakes away in the oven.
This casserole is also perfect for leftovers, as the flavors meld beautifully over time. It’s easy to reheat, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, Beef Lombardi Casserole has you covered.
Ingredients about Beef Lombardi Casserole
To create this mouthwatering Beef Lombardi Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey/chicken
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (like Rotel)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Directions
Creating Beef Lombardi Casserole is a simple process that even novice cooks can master. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish to prepare for the casserole. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Don’t worry if you’re using turkey or chicken; the process is quite similar. Once finished, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Next, add in the diced tomatoes, including the can with green chiles, along with the tomato paste. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to come to a simmer, cooking for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep everything evenly mixed.
While this is simmering, you should prepare the egg noodles. Cook them according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Following this, drain the noodles and toss them in a bowl with the sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, ensuring every strand is coated. This step adds a creamy richness that elevates the entire dish.
Now it’s time to assemble your casserole. Spread the creamy noodles evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, layer the simmered beef and tomato mixture over the noodles. Make sure to spread it out evenly to ensure that every bite is flavorful. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheeses—cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella—over the top. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a golden-brown crust during baking.
Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You know it’s ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese is beginning to turn a lovely shade of golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole
Serving Beef Lombardi Casserole is part of the joy of this dish. With its layers of comfort, it’s perfect for family-style meals. You can pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for added freshness. The contrast of the salad’s crunch with the cheese-filled richness of the casserole creates a delightful balance.
For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a basket of your favorite dinner rolls. And don’t forget about the beverages! A refreshing iced tea or lemonade can enhance the comforting experience of your dinner. A nice touch is to sprinkle some fresh herbs over the casserole as a garnish just before serving. This not only improves the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
Expert Tips: Beef Lombardi Casserole
To elevate your Beef Lombardi Casserole even more, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini in your meat sauce for extra nutrition and texture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with your cheese choices. Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick, while gouda can lend a smokier taste.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the dish is bubbling and the cheese is perfectly melted. Clear, golden edges indicate a well-baked casserole.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier version, add additional red pepper flakes or use spicy diced tomatoes.
By following these tips, you can personalize your casserole just the way you like it, making it truly your own.
How to Store Beef Lombardi Casserole
Storing Beef Lombardi Casserole is easy and can help you prolong its delightful flavors. If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains moist by covering it.
For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven for the best results.
Variation of Beef Lombardi Casserole
One of the exciting things about Beef Lombardi Casserole is its flexibility. You can try a few variations to keep things interesting:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with lentils or a mix of your favorite beans to create a satisfying vegetarian meal.
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Use taco seasoning in place of the spices, add black beans, and add corn to the meat mixture. Top with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy twist.
- Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Broccoli or spinach can easily be added to the mixture or layered in with the noodles, providing color and nutrition.
- Pasta Swap: Instead of egg noodles, try using different pasta shapes, like penne or rotini, for a new take on this classic dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, ensuring that the rest of your ingredients also meet your dietary needs.
No matter which variation you choose, the heart of the dish remains comforting and delectable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beef Lombardi Casserole
What is Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a baked dish made with egg noodles, ground beef or turkey, tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses, topped for a creamy and cheesy experience.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, keep it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What cheeses can I use for Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are traditional choices, but feel free to mix in other favorites like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Yes! Just allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze it. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
What should I serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or some warm rolls to soak up the rich flavors.
Beef Lombardi Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey/chicken Choose based on your preference.
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes and green chiles (like Rotel)
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 12 oz package egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt Adds creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with green chiles) and tomato paste to the skillet, followed by the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the beef mixture simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and mix with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Spread the creamy noodles in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Layer the beef mixture over them, then sprinkle the shredded cheeses on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!