Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish layered with seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, tangy tomato sauce, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this casserole is filling, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s a classic baked dish that combines bold taste with homestyle satisfaction.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

ground beefyellow onionsgarlic clovesdiced tomatoes (with juice)tomato pastasaltblack peppercrushed red pepper (optional)egg noodles (or any wide pasta)sour creamcream cheesecheddar cheesegreen onions

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 until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened.

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using). Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a medium bowl, mix sour cream and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the cooked noodles.

Spread half of the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Top with half of the meat sauce and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining noodle mixture, meat sauce, and cheese.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden top.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesTotal time: 60–65 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies.

Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese in place of cheddar.

Add a layer of spinach or kale between the noodles and sauce.

Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely, it freezes well either whole or in individual portions.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta all work well.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese.

Is it spicy?

Only slightly if you include red pepper flakes—omit them for a milder version.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, though homemade sauce gives the best flavor.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Don’t overbake and make sure your meat sauce is slightly saucy before layering.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course—feel free to add extra cheese between the layers or on top.

Do I need to cover it while baking?

No, bake it uncovered for a bubbly, golden top.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and layered with bold flavors that satisfy every craving. Whether feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. Enjoy it straight from the oven and savor every bite of its delicious, homestyle goodness.

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