Beef Lombardi Casserole is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also stirs up memories of family dinners, potlucks with friends, or the cozy evenings when you just needed a little extra comfort on your plate. While its exact origins might be a little mysterious, this casserole represents everything we love about traditional American home cooking: it’s hearty, full of flavor, and brings people together around the dinner table.

This dish is a masterclass in layering, combining tender noodles, creamy sour cream, savory beef sauce, and a melty blanket of cheese. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it an all-time favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and reheats like a dream. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a group of friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Comforting and Nostalgic: Beef Lombardi Casserole embodies everything we love about comfort food—rich, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.
Meal-Prep Friendly: You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it perfect for busy schedules or planned gatherings.
Easily Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, experiment with spices, or swap out cheeses to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 pound ground beef
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
6 oz medium egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring there are no large chunks. Once the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat.

Next, add the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and create a rich, savory sauce. Stir occasionally and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is bubbling away, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them to al dente—firm to the bite—so they hold their texture in the casserole. Once cooked, drain the noodles well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sour cream to the noodles and stir until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Begin by spreading the sour cream-coated noodles evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will be the base layer of your casserole. Then, spoon the meat sauce over the noodles, using a spatula to spread it out evenly.

In a small bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Generously sprinkle this cheese mixture over the top of the meat sauce, covering every corner.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes, allowing the casserole to heat through and the flavors to meld together. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step lets the cheese melt completely and achieve that irresistible golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes serving easier. Pair it with a fresh green salad or a slice of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Helpful Tips:

Pick Your Pasta: While egg noodles are the classic choice, you can use penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Cheese Options: Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheeses! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a sharp white cheddar can add a delightful twist.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a handful of spinach to the meat sauce.
Double It Up: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd or to freeze half for another meal.

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Notes:

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
Cook pasta to al dente to prevent overcooking in the oven.
Swap diced tomatoes with green chilies for plain diced tomatoes if you prefer a milder flavor.
Prep the meat sauce ahead of time to save time on busy days.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Customize with your favorite veggies or cheese blends!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

Calories: 550
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold dish.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What are some good side dishes for this recipe?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes.

Related Recipes:

If you enjoyed this casserole, you might love these comfort-food favorites:

Conclusion:

Beef Lombardi Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a memory waiting to happen. Its warm, hearty layers will have your loved ones gathered around the table in no time. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe promises to deliver smiles and satisfaction every time.

Beef Lombardi Casserole

Author: Diane M

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