Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a cozy, cheesy baked dish that layers savory ground beef tomato sauce with creamy cheese mixtures and tender egg noodles. This comforting American classic combines rich flavors of seasoned beef, tangy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese into an irresistible casserole perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 green onions, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix until the blend is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the cooked egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the noodles and spread gently to cover. Top this layer evenly with the beef and tomato sauce mixture.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring every bite will have a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier portions.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving for convenience.
- For extra flavor and texture, sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers can be added to the beef mixture.
