A Comfort Food Classic
If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and delivers a big hug in every bite, look no further than Beef Lombardi Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender egg noodles, savory beef, cheesy goodness, and a medley of rich, tomato-based flavors into a perfectly baked creation. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, along with how you can make it right in your own kitchen.
What’s in Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients that come together to create this fantastic casserole, plus a few tips to make it even better:
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease, but feel free to substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Want a vegetarian twist? Swap it for crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
- Egg Noodles: These tender noodles absorb all the delicious flavors beautifully. No egg noodles? No problem—any pasta you love will work just as well.
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatic essentials that form the flavorful foundation of the dish. Experiment by roasting the garlic for a sweeter, more complex taste.
- Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These provide a rich, tangy base. Opt for low-sodium versions to control the saltiness, and for a smoky kick, try fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- Italian Seasoning: A perfect mix of classic herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh herbs are a great substitute if you have them on hand!
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts to perfection and forms that irresistible bubbly, golden top. For extra flavor, mix in some provolone or Parmesan.
- Cottage Cheese: It adds a creamy texture and keeps the casserole moist. Don’t worry—you won’t taste the cottage cheese, just smooth, cheesy goodness.
- Salt and Pepper: These pantry staples enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish when sprinkled on top.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Servings: This recipe serves about 6 people.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from becoming too oily.
- Prepare the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (including their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Combine the Components: In a large bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the beef and tomato mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the noodle and meat mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer with half of the cottage cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for garnish before serving.
