Beef Lombardi Casserole

Looking for a nostalgic, cheesy, beefy dish that screams comfort food? Beef Lombardi Casserole is your answer! This hearty casserole layers savory ground beef, tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese blend that brings everyone back to the table for seconds (and maybe thirds). It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and make-ahead freezer meals.

This Beef Lombardi Casserole recipe is an all-American favorite that combines flavor, texture, and comfort in one delicious dish.

What Is Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a baked comfort dish that starts with seasoned ground beef in a tomato base, layered over tender egg noodles, and finished with a creamy cheese mixture. The result? A bubbling, golden casserole that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

It comes together with minimal effort—and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite at first bite.

Ingredients for Beef Lombardi Casserole

To make this flavorful Beef Lombardi Casserole, you’ll need simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are pantry staples:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

For the Base & Topping:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella (optional for extra melty goodness)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil your egg noodles in well-salted water until tender, following the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, using a spoon or spatula to break it into crumbles as it cooks. Add the diced onion and garlic, and continue cooking until fragrant and soft.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Mixture

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, and seasonings, and give it all a good stir to combine. Simmer for about 8–10 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Layer

In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions until smooth and well-blended.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the noodles, followed by half of the creamy mixture, then half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers and top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the layers can set nicely.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Beef Lombardi Casserole is fantastic for prepping ahead. Assemble the entire dish and refrigerate or freeze before baking.

• Freezer Option: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To Bake from Frozen: Allow the casserole to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before popping it in the oven as usual.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Delicious Pairings for Beef Lombardi Casserole

This cozy dish is a perfect match for all kinds of sides, making it easy to round out your meal. Try serving it with:

• A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or carrots
• Garlic bread or warm buttery rolls
• A chilled glass of iced tea or a full-bodied red wine

Tips for Success

To make sure your Beef Lombardi Casserole is perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease and keep things lighter.
• Don’t skip seasoning—taste your meat sauce before assembling to adjust flavors.
• Let it rest after baking to help the casserole slice cleanly.
• Change up the cheese by adding Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Fun Variations to Try

Want to personalize your Beef Lombardi Casserole? Here are a few tasty twists:

• Go spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
• Sneak in veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini work beautifully in this casserole.
• Low-carb alternative: Swap the egg noodles with roasted cauliflower or zucchini ribbons.

✨ Final Thoughts

Beef Lombardi Casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of bold flavor—perfect for family dinners, freezer prep, or feeding a crowd.

So whether you’re cooking it fresh or pulling it from the freezer on a busy night, you can count on Beef Lombardi Casserole to bring comfort and smiles to the table.

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