Beef Lombardi Casserole
Why Make This Recipe?
Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a hearty, layered dish that combines flavorful ground beef, tender pasta, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is easy to make, delicious, and sure to please the entire family. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for potlucks and cozy family dinners.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 8
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole
Ingredients
- For the Beef Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced ????
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ????
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes ????
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce ????
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning ????
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream ????
- 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese) ????
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ????
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz wide egg noodles ????
- 1 tbsp olive oil ????
- For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ????
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) ????
Directions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
- Make the Beef Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Prepare the Creamy Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well and set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread half of the cooked noodles in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the beef sauce over the noodles, followed by half of the creamy mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef sauce, and creamy mixture.
- Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole
Serve this casserole hot with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It’s also great with roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
How to Store Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap the entire casserole dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Customize the Seasonings: Adjust the spice level with paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Prepare Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef sauce for extra heat.
- Cheesy Overload: Mix in extra Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for a more indulgent flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the noodles since they’ll cook further in the oven.
- Layer Evenly: Distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite has a balanced flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
How Many Servings?
This recipe makes about 8 generous servings.
Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~25g
- Fats: ~22g
- Saturated Fats: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sodium: ~650mg
Health Benefits of Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Protein Powerhouse: The ground beef and cheese provide high-quality protein to support muscle health.
- Calcium Boost: Cheese and sour cream add calcium for strong bones.
- Balanced Energy: The pasta offers carbohydrates for energy, while the fats provide satiety.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes, with a few adjustments:
- Lower Sodium Version: Use low-sodium tomato sauce and cheese.
- Lean Protein: Opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce saturated fats.
- Digestible Texture: The soft noodles and creamy layers are gentle on digestion.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use penne, rotini, or ziti if egg noodles are unavailable.
2. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free.
3. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make excellent additions for added nutrients.
Beef Lombardi Casserole is the perfect mix of hearty, creamy, and cheesy. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize and even easier to enjoy. Try it tonight and let it become a favorite in your recipe collection!
