Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

If you're in the mood for a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, this Beef Lombardi Casserole is just what you need! It's a layered casserole featuring savory seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a creamy tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. It's perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or a cozy family dinner. This easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation, offering delicious layers of comfort in every bite.

this Recipe

What is a “Beef Lombardi Casserole”?

A Beef Lombardi Casserole is a classic American comfort food dish that combines seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese mixture, all baked into one irresistible casserole. Named after the famed NFL coach Vince Lombardi, this casserole is perfect for game day or any night when you want something filling and delicious. The flavors are similar to lasagna, but with a creamy twist and no complicated layering of noodles. It’s a casserole that’s easy to make, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing!

Ingredients List for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Beef Lombardi Casserole:

For the Meat Sauce:

1. 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
2. 1 small onion (diced)
3. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
4. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
5. 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
6. 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
7. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8. ½ teaspoon paprika
9. ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
10. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Layer:

1. 8 oz egg noodles (or any short pasta)
2. 1 cup sour cream
3. 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta for a richer flavor)
4. ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
5. ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
6. ¼ teaspoon onion powder

For the Topping:

1. 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
2. ½ cup green onions (chopped, for garnish)
3. Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Ingredients List for Beef Lombardi Casserole (Healthier Option)

For a lighter version of Beef Lombardi Casserole, try these healthier substitutions:

1. 1 lb ground turkey (instead of beef for a leaner option)
2. Whole wheat egg noodles (or gluten-free noodles)
3. Low-fat sour cream and cottage cheese (to reduce calories and fat)
4. Reduced-fat shredded cheese
5. Add Vegetables: Try adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust it based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences:

• Protein Options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Pasta Alternatives: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Beef Lombardi Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a Skillet: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Layer

1. Mix the Creamy Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked noodles on the bottom.
2. Add the Meat Sauce: Spoon half of the meat sauce over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
3. Add Creamy Layer: Spread the entire creamy sour cream and cheese mixture over the meat sauce.
4. Top with More Noodles and Sauce: Add the remaining noodles and then the rest of the meat sauce on top.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Bake

1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
2. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let it Cool: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Cook Beef Lombardi Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add the tomatoes and seasonings.
2. Prepare the Creamy Layer: Mix sour cream, cottage cheese, and spices for the creamy, cheesy middle layer.
3. Cook the Pasta: Boil the egg noodles until just al dente, then layer them with the beef sauce and creamy mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Layer noodles, sauce, and the cheese mixture in a baking dish.
5. Bake Until Golden: Bake until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
2. Not Seasoning the Sauce: Taste the meat sauce before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s well-seasoned. The pasta and cheese will absorb some of the seasoning, so don’t skimp on the spices.
3. Skipping the Creamy Layer: Don’t skip the creamy cottage cheese and sour cream layer—it’s what makes this dish unique and extra delicious.
4. Not Letting It Rest: Let the casserole cool for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Though this is a rustic dish, you can still present it beautifully with a few simple tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving for a pop of color.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair the casserole with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
3. Slice Neatly: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into it, which will help keep the layers intact for a cleaner presentation.

How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Portions: Cut the casserole into squares and serve each portion with a garnish of fresh herbs and a side of vegetables or salad.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Lombardi Casserole

1. Cast Iron Skillet: Bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
2. Herb Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Golden Cheese Topping: Broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes to get a golden, bubbly cheese top.

Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it, but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently

Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes, ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese. It gives the casserole a slightly creamier texture.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and make sure the other ingredients (like the diced tomatoes and tomato paste) are gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Definitely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or even ground chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: To prevent the casserole from drying out, make sure you cover it with foil for the first part of baking, and use enough sauce so that the noodles don’t absorb all the liquid.

Conclusion

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and tender noodles in one satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to be a hit. Customize it to your liking with different cheeses, meats, or vegetables, and enjoy the hearty, flavorful layers that make this casserole so special. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch as everyone asks for seconds! Enjoy!

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