Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a homey, comforting dish that bursts with savory flavors and creamy textures, look no further than this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe. This casserole brings together tender ground beef, tender egg noodles, tangy sour cream, and melty Colby Jack cheese in a harmonious blend that tastes like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with layers of flavor that make every bite memorable. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe promises satisfaction and leftovers you’ll be excited to enjoy again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, combining to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. From the zing of tomato paste to the comforting creaminess of sour cream and cream cheese, these simple essentials deliver fantastic taste, texture, and color.

• Olive oil: A tablespoon provides the perfect base for browning your beef without sticking.
• Lean ground beef: One pound of good-quality meat adds hearty protein and savory depth.
• Onion (finely chopped): Half an onion offers sweetness and aroma that complement the beef.
• Salt: One teaspoon to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper: Half a teaspoon for a gentle kick of warmth.
• Tomato paste: Four tablespoons add a concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Three cloves give a fragrant, savory punch.
• Italian seasoning: One teaspoon blends herbs to deepen the Mediterranean notes.
• Diced tomatoes with chilies (drained): Three 10-ounce cans lend juicy tang with a subtle heat.
• Celery salt: A quarter teaspoon adds a mild, herbal saltiness.
• Egg noodles: One 12-ounce package is the tender pasta that absorbs every flavor.
• Sour cream: One and a quarter cups provide a luscious, tangy creaminess.
• Cream cheese (softened): Four ounces add richness and smooth texture.
• Cornstarch: One tablespoon helps thicken the creamy mixture perfectly.
• Colby Jack cheese (shredded): Two and a half cups create a golden, melty topping that’s irresistible.

How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Brown the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when you assemble your casserole. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes until your beef is beautifully browned and your onions turn translucent and soft. Season generously with salt and pepper to build a flavorful base.

Step 2: Build the Sauce with Tomato Paste and Spices

Next, stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and the drained diced tomatoes with chilies. This combination makes the sauce burst with a deep, savory punch and a touch of heat, giving the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe its signature complex flavor. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles for just 3 minutes. They should be slightly undercooked because they will continue cooking in the oven. Save 2 cups of the starchy noodle water, then drain the noodles carefully to keep that moisture for the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and half a cup of the reserved noodle water. This blend will give the casserole richness and a luscious, velvety texture that perfectly balances the tangy tomato base of your beef mixture.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Cream Mixture

Return the noodles and remaining reserved noodle water to the large pot, then mix in your creamy sour cream and cream cheese blend until everything is evenly coated. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed for perfect seasoning. Transfer this comfy noodle mix into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Spread your savory beef mixture evenly over the noodles in the baking dish, smoothing it with the back of a spoon. Then, generously sprinkle your shredded Colby Jack cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust. Bake the dish in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and delicately browned on the edges. This is where magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal.

How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little fresh brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top right after baking. These green herbs lighten the rich flavors and add a pop of color that makes the dish feel freshly made and inviting.

Side Dishes

Because the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is hearty on its own, lighter sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables balance the creamy richness wonderfully and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style presentation, bring the whole baking dish to the table, letting everyone scoop their own portions. Or, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a cozy, personalized touch that feels special and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, so it tastes just as delicious, if not better, the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for even later, this casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.

Reheating

When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, stirring halfway. For larger portions or the whole dish, reheat in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven covered with foil to maintain moisture, about 20 to 25 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles work perfectly because of their texture and starchiness, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like shells or penne. Just make sure to slightly undercook them so they don’t get mushy during baking.

Is this recipe spicy because of the diced tomatoes with chilies?

The diced tomatoes with chilies add a gentle, mild heat that enhances the flavor without overwhelming it. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use plain diced tomatoes instead, but the chilies do add a nice depth.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is centered around beef, you could substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.

What is the best cheese to use in this casserole?

The recipe calls for Colby Jack cheese, which melts beautifully and adds a creamy, slightly tangy flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist, but Colby Jack offers a nice balance.

How can I make the casserole gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. Ensure your tomato paste and canned tomatoes don’t contain any gluten additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm embrace, and this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe hits that mark perfectly. Easy to make, deeply flavorful, and utterly comforting, it’s sure to become a family favorite you’ll reach for time and time again. Don’t hesitate to dive in, make a batch, and watch this humble casserole bring smiles all around the table.

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