There’s something special about a warm, bubbling casserole straight out of the oven. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together, fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, and satisfies every craving for something cheesy, hearty, and comforting. Cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole is exactly that—a rich and flavorful dish that layers seasoned beef, tender pasta, a creamy sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s easy to prepare, makes great leftovers, and can even be frozen for future dinners. If you love a classic, baked pasta dish with layers of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Satisfying – Loaded with pasta, beef, and cheese for a filling meal.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – A dish everyone will love, from kids to adults.
- Cheesy & Creamy Layers – The combination of a rich beef sauce, a creamy layer, and melted cheese is irresistible.
- Freezer-Friendly – Make a double batch and freeze one for an easy future meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta Layer:
- 8 oz egg noodles or your favorite pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the egg noodles (or your chosen pasta) according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Layer
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances the beefy tomato sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon half of the creamy mixture over the noodles and spread gently.
- Add half of the beef sauce on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, creamy mixture, and beef sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef sauce for a little heat.
- Swap the cottage cheese with ricotta for a smoother texture.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze for later: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Family-Friendly
Notes
- Pasta Swap: Use penne, rotini, or bowtie if needed.
- Cheese Options: Substitute ricotta for cottage cheese.
- Boost Flavor: Add red pepper flakes or Worcestershire sauce.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Best Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
- Lighter Version: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Pasta?
Yes! While egg noodles work great, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any short pasta you prefer.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until hot.
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Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or freezing for later, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
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Cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Delight!
Description
There’s something special about a warm, bubbling casserole straight out of the oven. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together, fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, and satisfies every craving for something cheesy, hearty, and comforting. Cheesy Beef Lombardi Casserole is exactly that—a rich and flavorful dish that layers seasoned beef, tender pasta, a creamy sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s easy to prepare, makes great leftovers, and can even be frozen for future dinners. If you love a classic, baked pasta dish with layers of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta Layer:
- 8 oz egg noodles or your favorite pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the egg noodles (or your chosen pasta) according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Layer
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances the beefy tomato sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon half of the creamy mixture over the noodles and spread gently.
- Add half of the beef sauce on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, creamy mixture, and beef sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Pasta Swap: Use penne, rotini, or bowtie if needed.
- Cheese Options: Substitute ricotta for cottage cheese.
- Boost Flavor: Add red pepper flakes or Worcestershire sauce.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Best Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
- Lighter Version: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad.