The Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of seasoned beef, tangy tomatoes, and rich cheese. The layers of creamy sour cream and cottage cheese add a wonderful balance, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and can be customized with additional veggies or seasonings as desired. Serve it hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cottage cheese, and chopped green onions until well combined.
- Layer a greased 9×13-inch baking dish with half of the cooked egg noodles. Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the sour cream mixture.
- Repeat layers, ending with the remaining beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: 420 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
10 Alternative Names for the Dish:
- Cheesy Beef and Tomato Casserole
- Hearty Beef Noodle Bake
- Beef and Cheese Pasta Casserole
- Italian-Style Beef Bake
- Beefy Tomato Noodle Casserole
- Comforting Beef and Cheese Layered Bake
- Cheddar Beef Noodle Casserole
- Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Bake
- Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole
- Savory Beef and Tomato Cheese Bake
Cooking Tips:
- Customize the Cheese: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy top layer.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Make it Healthier: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, or use low-fat cheeses.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve for a fresh and hot meal.
History and Origins of Beef Lombardi Casserole
The Beef Lombardi Casserole is a modern twist on classic comfort food, inspired by Southern and Southwestern cooking traditions. While casseroles have long been a staple in American households due to their simplicity and ability to feed a crowd, this particular version has its roots in Texas-style cuisine. The inclusion of green chiles, cheddar cheese, and hearty ground beef provides that signature Tex-Mex flavor, making it a favorite for both casual family dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredient Insights
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef provides the savory backbone of this dish. For a lighter alternative, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken without losing the hearty texture.
- Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles: These ingredients give the casserole its signature Tex-Mex kick. You can adjust the spiciness by choosing between mild or hot versions, depending on your preference.
- Sour Cream: It’s mixed with the egg noodles to create a creamy, tangy base that helps balance the rich flavors of the beef and tomatoes.
- Cheese Trio: This dish uses a mix of cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella, creating layers of melty goodness. You can customize the cheese blend with your favorites—think pepper jack for extra heat or gouda for a smoky touch.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
To round out this casserole, consider serving it with some classic sides:
- Crisp Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a simple vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
- Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice: A perfect side to stay in line with the Southwestern theme, offering some extra flavor and texture.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are a hit when paired with the cheesy, hearty nature of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini to add more veggies to the meal.
Customization Ideas
This casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like black beans or meat substitutes. You can also load the dish with sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spicy Variation: For those who love heat, add jalapeños or use hot Rotel tomatoes. You can also top the finished dish with spicy salsa or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, and ensure all your canned ingredients are gluten-free.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
One of the best things about Beef Lombardi Casserole is its convenience for meal prepping. Here’s how:
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to two days in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! After baking, let the casserole cool completely, portion it out, and freeze in airtight containers or foil pans. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Weeknight Meal: With minimal prep time and a short bake time, this casserole is a lifesaver for busy evenings.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy noodles and cheesy topping make it a hit with picky eaters. Plus, you can sneak in extra vegetables for added nutrition.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole tastes just as good (if not better) the next day. It reheats beautifully, making it great for quick lunches or dinners.
Conclusion
The Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy noodles, zesty beef, and a trio of gooey cheeses. It combines the warmth of Southern cooking with a bold Southwestern flair, making it an irresistible family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or freezing it for later, this casserole delivers every time.
Its versatility allows for easy customization, making it perfect for various tastes and dietary preferences. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, the Beef Lombardi Casserole is a must-have recipe in your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides, enjoy the leftovers, and watch as this dish quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!