Beef Lombardi Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish layered with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, creamy sour cream, and egg noodles, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a satisfying fusion of Italian-American flavors and Southern-style comfort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicdiced tomatoes with juices tomato pasteblack pepperkosher saltsugarcooked egg noodlessour creamcream cheesegreen onionsshredded cheddar cheese

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain excess fat.

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and sliced green onions until smooth.

In the greased baking dish, layer half the cooked egg noodles, followed by half the sour cream mixture, then half the beef mixture. Repeat the layers once more.

Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden.

Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To freeze, wrap the unbaked or baked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What type of noodles work best?

Wide egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta with similar texture can work.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for easy future meals.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well.

Can I use low-fat dairy?

Yes, low-fat sour cream and cream cheese can be used with slightly less richness.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can reduce a bit of tomato sauce until thickened as a substitute.

Can I make this spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for heat.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave in 1-minute intervals or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a family favorite with mild flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it’s great for large gatherings—just use two baking dishes.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a deliciously layered, easy-to-make comfort food that brings together savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender noodles into one warm, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re hosting family dinner or prepping meals ahead, it’s a guaranteed winner.

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