Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole
This zesty Southwestern-inspired beef and noodle bake is a nostalgic twist on a classic family favorite! Inspired by the comforting dishes my mom used to make, the Beef Lombardi Casserole brings back those cherished memories of coming home to the aroma of a bubbling, cheesy casserole. With tender noodles layered under a flavorful beef and tomato-chile sauce, and topped with gooey cheese, it’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly evenings. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or reheat the leftovers—it’s bound to become a family staple!
1 lb lean ground beef or turkey/chicken
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes & green chiles
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 oz egg noodles
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 dish.
2. Cook ground meat in a skillet until browned. Drain fat.
3. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Simmer for 15-20 mins.
4. Cook noodles, drain, and mix with sour cream. Spread in dish.
5. Layer beef mixture and sprinkle cheeses. Bake for 20-25 mins.
6. Let stand for 5 mins before serving.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 450 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of lean ground beef over medium-high heat until thoroughly browned, then drain any excess fat. To the same skillet, add the canned diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
While the sauce simmers, cook 12 oz of egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and immediately return them to the hot pot. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt until the noodles are evenly coated. Transfer this creamy noodle mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Next, pour the entire beef and tomato sauce mixture over the noodles, spreading it carefully to cover. Finally, in a generous layer, sprinkle the top with the combined cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true comfort food feast, serve it alongside garlic bread or warm, buttered dinner rolls. A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complements the dish beautifully.
How-to Summary
Brown beef, then simmer with tomatoes and spices to create a zesty sauce. Cook and drain noodles, then mix with sour cream. Layer noodles, sauce, and cheese in a dish. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
What can I use instead of egg noodles? Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli will work well. Just be sure to cook it to al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole? Yes, for up to 3 months. Assemble and bake as directed, let cool completely, then wrap tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Is there a way to make it less spicy? To reduce the heat, simply use a second can of plain diced tomatoes instead of the tomatoes with green chiles. You can also use mild cheddar cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the noodles before baking, as they will continue to soften in the oven—aim for al dente. Do not skip the step of letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices. Ensure your meat sauce has simmered long enough to thicken; a runny sauce will make the final dish watery. Finally, don’t skimp on the cheese layer, as it forms the essential golden, protective crust.
Conclusion
Beef Lombardi Casserole is the epitome of comforting, family-friendly cuisine. Its simple preparation, flexible ingredients, and incredibly satisfying flavor profile make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a delicious, crowd-pleasing result that honors the nostalgic spirit of the dish. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.