Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, Beef Lombardi Casserole is a perfect choice. This classic comfort food features layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prepping.
In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to create the best Beef Lombardi Casserole, including step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and ingredient variations to customize it to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful – A combination of seasoned beef, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it ahead and store it for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love it!
- Freezer-Friendly – Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Pasta Layer:
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease and add diced onions and minced garlic.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Pasta Layer
- In a bowl, mix cooked egg noodles, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the meat mixture evenly over the pasta layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- If using, sprinkle crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Use Lean Ground Beef – Reduces excess grease for a cleaner dish.
- Make it Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap the Pasta – Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even zucchini noodles.
- Extra Cheesy? – Add an extra 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese for more gooeyness.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes helps the layers set.
Variations
1. Low-Carb/Keto Version
- Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Use full-fat sour cream and cream cheese.
2. Vegetarian Version
- Substitute ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Use vegetable broth instead of Worcestershire sauce.
3. Mexican-Style Twist
- Add 1 teaspoon cumin and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder to the meat mixture.
- Use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Top with sliced jalapeños.
What to Serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Side Salad – A fresh garden or Caesar salad complements the richness.
- Mashed Potatoes – For an ultra-comforting meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
2. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well.
3. Can I Make This Without Dairy?
Yes, substitute dairy with dairy-free cheese, coconut cream, or cashew cream.
4. What’s the Best Cheese for This Casserole?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but you can also use Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.
Conclusion
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a versatile, delicious, and freezer-friendly option.
Try this recipe today and let us know how you liked it! Happy Cooking! 🍽️
Beef Lombardi Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Make the best Beef Lombardi Casserole with layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and pasta. A comforting, easy, and family-friendly meal!
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Pasta Layer:
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease and add diced onions and minced garlic.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Pasta Layer
- In a bowl, mix cooked egg noodles, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the meat mixture evenly over the pasta layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- If using, sprinkle crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use Lean Ground Beef – Reduces excess grease for a cleaner dish.
- Make it Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap the Pasta – Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even zucchini noodles.
- Extra Cheesy? – Add an extra 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese for more gooeyness.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes helps the layers set.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 30minutes