Beef Lombardi Casserole

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that perfectly combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender egg noodles, all baked to golden perfection. This comforting dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also warms your heart, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. Designed to be easy to prepare, the step-by-step process allows anyone to create this delicious casserole effortlessly. It’s worth making simply for its ability to bring everyone together around the table, enjoying a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about Beef Lombardi Casserole is its simplicity. With easy prep and minimal ingredients, it’s a hassle-free recipe that doesn’t require gourmet cooking skills. This dish is family-friendly, meaning even the pickiest eaters will find something to love. Plus, whether you opt for a quick preparation or a more traditional approach, this recipe can adapt to your schedule.

The star of the dish is, of course, the ground beef, which offers a rich flavor foundation. Coupled with creamy sour cream and cheese, each bite is velvety and delightful. Add in the texture of the egg noodles, and you have a casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Beef Lombardi Casserole

To prepare this marvelous Beef Lombardi Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef, juicy and flavorful
1 small onion, chopped finely for a sweet crunch
2 cloves garlic, minced, releasing an aromatic essence
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, vibrant and tangy
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce, rich for added moisture
1 tsp Italian seasoning, a blend of herbs for extra depth
Salt & pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors
1 cup sour cream, creamy and tangy
4 oz cream cheese, softened for a luxurious texture
2 cups cooked egg noodles, tender and comforting
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, melty and delicious
1/2 cup chopped green onions, for a fresh finish

Step-by-Step Directions for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart. Once browned, drain any excess fat to ensure the dish isn’t greasy.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes while the flavors meld together beautifully.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This will form a delightful layer in your casserole, adding richness.
Combine the sour cream mixture with the cooked egg noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated. This combination provides a luscious base for your casserole.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture, followed by the beef mixture. Spread the remaining noodle mixture on top, creating a lovely layered effect.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the chopped green onions for garnish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving and watch it disappear!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate the flavor of your Beef Lombardi Casserole, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano along with the Italian seasoning. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat if you enjoy a little spice.

For an added texture, feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Optional extras such as olives or sun-dried tomatoes can introduce new dimensions of flavor to your casserole.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Beef Lombardi Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the dish perfectly, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.

For an added touch, serve the casserole in stylish, individual ramekins for a beautiful presentation that your guests will appreciate. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional green onions on top before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

This Beef Lombardi Casserole serves approximately six people, making it a wonderful option for family meals or leftovers for busy weeknights. Each serving contains about 450 calories, with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates to keep you energized. While it’s indulgent, it’s a nutritious way to enjoy hearty comfort food without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.

Storing Tips & Variations for Beef Lombardi Casserole

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

You can also customize this dish to fit dietary preferences. For a lighter option, substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. Instead of egg noodles, consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier version while maintaining the same delicious taste.

Conclusion for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Don’t wait to indulge in the comforting and delightful flavors of Beef Lombardi Casserole. With its simplicity and heartwarming taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Gather your ingredients and get cooking; this scrumptious dish is ready to bring everyone to the table for a truly memorable meal.

FAQs

Can I make Beef Lombardi Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative to create a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I do if I don’t have egg noodles?
You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni or rotini, as long as it’s cooked beforehand.
Can I add extra vegetables to Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, either sautéed or raw before layering.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture to kick up the heat!

Beef Lombardi Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender egg noodles, baked to golden perfection.

Instructions

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and softened cream cheese until smooth.
Combine the sour cream mixture with the cooked egg noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture, followed by the beef mixture and then the remaining noodle mixture.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the chopped green onions.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.