Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
A rich, cheesy masterpiece topped with bold flavors and cozy nostalgia—that’s Beef Lombardi Casserole in a nutshell. This beloved Southern classic has been winning hearts for generations with its hearty layers and satisfying blend of beef, pasta, and creamy cheese.
Equipment
- Large skillet for the beef mixture
- Mixing bowls for the noodles and cheese blend
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula and wooden spoon for stirring
- Aluminum foil for baking
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta Layer
- 8 oz egg noodles or pasta of your choice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
For the Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a big pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it's brown, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once it's done, drain the extra grease. Add simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder to make it tasty. Then, mix in chopped tomatoes and tomato sauce and let it cook slowly. This makes a rich and yummy base for your casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodle Layer
- While the beef is cooking, boil your egg noodles following the instructions on the package until they are firm but not too soft. Drain the noodles and put them in a big bowl. Add sour cream, cream cheese, and soft butter, then mix everything until the noodles are coated in a creamy sauce. This will make your casserole extra tasty.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Now it's time to put everything together in your 9x13-inch baking dish. First, spread half of the noodle mix on the bottom. Next, add half of the beef mix evenly on top. Repeat with the rest of the noodles and beef to make layers. Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and put it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes so the flavors mix well. Then, take off the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. This makes the casserole look and taste amazing!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it hold together, so each piece is easy to serve. Scoop a big portion onto a plate, add some parsley on top if you like, and enjoy the creamy, tasty Beef Lombardi Casserole. It’s a dish everyone will love.
Notes
This casserole is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. Make sure to season well and taste as you prepare, as this is key to bringing all the flavors together. Don’t forget to pre-cook any added vegetables for the best texture and flavor balance.