Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
There’s nothing quite like coming home to a bubbling dish of Beef Lombardi Casserole fresh from the oven. This legendary comfort food brings together savory ground beef, a creamy duo of cottage cheese and sour cream, all nestled between layers of tender egg noodles and blanketed in golden melted cheddar. Each bite is packed with rich tomato flavor, aromatic herbs, and a touch of crunch from fresh green onions—the sort of meal that gathers everyone around the table and makes leftovers something to look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this crowd-pleasing casserole couldn’t be easier, and each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, or color. The beauty of Beef Lombardi Casserole is that it strikes the perfect balance between pantry staples and a few fresh touches. Here’s what you’ll need—and why it matters:
- Ground Beef: The foundation of the dish, bringing heartiness and savory depth—go for 80/20 for maximum flavor.
- Yellow Onion: Sautéed onion adds subtle sweetness and rounds out the flavor base.
- Garlic: Just a couple of cloves for a savory punch that wakes up the tastebuds.
- Diced Tomatoes (undrained): Adds both tang and just the right amount of juiciness to the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce: Keeps the beef mixture rich and coats the noodles beautifully.
- Italian Seasoning: Offers up that classic herby aroma—don’t skip this!
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Black Pepper: Provides that mild, peppery warmth.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a subtle touch of heat.
- Wide Egg Noodles: Their softness soaks up all the flavors and keeps every forkful tender.
- Sour Cream: Melds into the cheese, adding tangy creaminess to balance the tomato sauce.
- Cottage Cheese: Contributes richness and moisture—swap with ricotta if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Green Onions: Chopped and mixed in for a fresh, vibrant bite that contrasts the creamy layers.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Creates an irresistibly gooey, melty topping.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions, lending a fragrant base to the beef layer.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium warmth and toss in your chopped onions. Cook them down for about 3 to 4 minutes—watch for that sweet aroma and soft, golden color. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute, as the fragrance becomes irresistible.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
To the sizzling skillet, add the ground beef. Break it up gently with your spoon as it browns, making sure you get an even, crumbly texture that will be perfect for layering. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat—this keeps the casserole from turning greasy.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce
With your beef still in the skillet, pour in the diced tomatoes (be sure to include all those flavorful juices) and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re craving gentle heat. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes, so the sauce thickens and all those delicious flavors meld.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles
While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain them well, since excess water can make your Beef Lombardi Casserole soupy. Set the noodles aside; they’re ready for assembly.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Layer
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and chopped green onions. This mixture is the secret to keeping the casserole creamy and flavorful—don’t be tempted to skip or skimp!
Step 6: Layer Up the Casserole
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and get ready to layer. First, spread half of the cooked noodles along the bottom. Add half the cheese mixture, then spoon on half the beefy tomato sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles, cheese mixture, and beef sauce. Top everything with a thick blanket of shredded cheddar cheese, the finishing touch that melts to golden perfection.
Step 7: Bake and Rest
Place the uncovered casserole into your hot oven. Let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is melted and turning a gorgeous golden color. When finished, let your Beef Lombardi Casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this makes serving easier and keeps those luscious layers intact.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole
Garnishes
Sprinkle on extra sliced green onions or a scattering of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and an extra fresh flavor boost. For a little kick, try dusting the top with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper right before serving.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole plays so well with simple veggie sides or lighter salads. Think crisp green salads tossed in lemony vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or buttery garlic bread—the ideal companions to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeding a crowd, portion your Beef Lombardi Casserole into individual ramekins before baking for a personal touch. You can also top each serving with a dollop of extra sour cream and a sprinkle of chives, or set out small bowls of toppings for guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Freezing
Beef Lombardi Casserole is freezer-friendly! Simply assemble up to the point of baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated portions, pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through (usually 20–25 minutes). For frozen casserole, bake covered for 1 hour at 350°F, then uncover and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden once more.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Beef Lombardi Casserole and lasagna?
While both dishes are layered and loaded with cheese, Beef Lombardi Casserole is quicker to make thanks to egg noodles and a creamy filling, rather than lasagna’s heavier ricotta and pasta sheets. The flavor profile is also a bit lighter and tangier.
Can I make Beef Lombardi Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going directly from fridge to oven.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can easily be swapped in for a lighter yet still flavorful twist on the classic dish—just be sure to season well for the best results.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?
Ricotta cheese makes a wonderful swap for cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother, creamier texture. The flavor remains just as delicious and comforting.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?
Be sure to drain your noodles well and let the beef mixture simmer until slightly thickened. Skipping these steps can result in excess water after baking, so take a little extra care for perfect, sliceable results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the ultimate in cozy, family-friendly comfort food, give Beef Lombardi Casserole a try. With its irresistibly creamy layers, stretchy cheese, and hearty beef, it’s bound to win over both longtime fans and first-timers. Gather your loved ones, dish out a generous scoop, and enjoy one of the most satisfying casseroles around!
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Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole that combines seasoned ground beef with tangy tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and tender egg noodles for a hearty family meal. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (8 oz) wide egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet, sauté chopped onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Cook Beef: Brown ground beef in the skillet, then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, seasonings, and simmer.
- Prepare Noodles and Cheese Mixture: Cook noodles, then mix sour cream, cottage cheese, and green onions in a bowl.
- Layer Casserole: In a baking dish, layer noodles, cheese mixture, beef, and repeat. Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 1 hour, covered, then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
