Beef Lombardi Casserole: 2 Comforting Layers of Joy

Name: Beef Lombardi Casserole: 2 Comforting Layers of Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 oz egg noodles; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

March 12, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: beef lombardi casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with layers of tender pasta, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese that just melts in your mouth. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s such a crowd-pleaser! Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. I love how versatile it is, too—feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or spices! Trust me, once you try this hearty dish, it’ll become a staple in your home just like it is in mine.

Ingredients for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious beef lombardi casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef (I like to use a lean blend for a healthier option)
12 oz egg noodles (these cook up beautifully and hold all that sauce)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) (don’t forget, the juice adds flavor!)
1 can tomato sauce (15 oz) (this is what makes it saucy and rich)
1 onion, chopped (for that savory base, I always use a yellow onion)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (the gooier, the better, I say!)
1 cup ricotta cheese (adds creaminess and texture)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a must for that classic flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)

Feel free to get creative with this list! If you have some leftover veggies in the fridge, toss them in; bell peppers or spinach work wonders here. Cooking should be fun, and this dish is all about layering flavors!

How to Prepare Beef Lombardi Casserole

Now, let’s dive into making this delicious beef lombardi casserole! It’s really straightforward, and I promise, you’ll have a masterpiece ready in no time.

Preheat and Cook Noodles

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because you want your casserole to bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grab a pot and bring some salted water to a boil. Cook the 12 oz of egg noodles according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside; they’ll soak up all those amazing flavors later!

Prepare the Beef Mixture

Next up, let’s work on the beef mixture. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef along with your chopped onion (1 onion, chopped) and minced garlic (2 cloves garlic, minced). Cook until the beef is no longer pink, and the onions are soft—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) and the tomato sauce (15 oz), along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors together; trust me, it’s going to smell amazing!

Layering the Casserole

Now comes the fun part: layering! In a baking dish, start with half of the cooked noodles on the bottom. Then, spread half of the beef mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the ricotta cheese (1 cup ricotta cheese). Repeat these layers, ending with the remaining noodles and beef, and finish off with a generous topping of 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Make sure to spread everything evenly so every bite is packed with flavor!

Baking the Casserole

Once your layers are set, pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Don’t rush this step! Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to scoop out those delicious portions. Oh, the anticipation is so worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef lombardi casserole is truly a gem in my recipe collection, and here’s why I think you’ll love it just as much:

Hearty and Satisfying: Each bite is packed with layers of pasta, beef, and gooey cheese, making it a filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this dish. It’s a great way to bring everyone together for a cozy meal, and I promise, there won’t be any leftovers!
Full of Flavor: The blend of Italian seasonings, juicy beef, and creamy cheeses creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand.

Trust me, this casserole is a delightful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!

Tips for Success

To really make your beef lombardi casserole shine, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!

Brown the Beef Well: When browning your ground beef, be sure to break it up into small pieces and let it get a nice golden color. This adds depth of flavor that makes a huge difference!
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Remember to cook your egg noodles just to al dente! They’ll finish cooking in the oven, so you want them slightly firm to soak up all that delicious sauce without getting mushy.
Try Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is a classic, feel free to mix it up! A blend of mozzarella and provolone or even a sprinkle of parmesan on top can add a delightful twist.
Spice It Up: If you love a little kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. It adds a nice warmth without overwhelming the dish!
Let Leftovers Rest: If you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), let them sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors meld together beautifully, making the next day’s serving even tastier.
Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to add veggies! Spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms can be mixed into the beef mixture or layered in for extra nutrition and flavor.

These little tweaks will help you achieve a beef lombardi casserole that’s not just good, but extraordinary! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of my beef lombardi casserole. Keep in mind these are approximate values, and they can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg

This casserole packs a hearty punch while still being balanced. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without feeling guilty. So go ahead and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!

FAQ About Beef Lombardi Casserole

Got questions about beef lombardi casserole? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you whip up this delicious dish with confidence.

Can I make beef lombardi casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work beautifully in this beef casserole. You could even try a meat substitute or lentils for a vegetarian version. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed!

Can I freeze leftover beef lombardi casserole?

Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the freezer. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.

What can I serve with beef lombardi casserole?

This hearty dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for dipping. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top. If you want to be extra sure, you can check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Give it a little time to cool before diving in—it’ll be so tempting, but patience makes it easier to serve!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store your delicious beef lombardi casserole so you can enjoy those leftovers later! First off, make sure to let your casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from making it soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’s best to cover it tightly to keep all that cheesy goodness locked in.

You can keep your beef lombardi casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, I recommend taking the casserole out and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake it covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you want that cheese to get all bubbly and golden again, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. Oh, and remember to check the internal temperature—you want it to reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat!

These simple storage and reheating tips will help you enjoy your beef lombardi casserole just as much the second time around. Trust me, it’s just as comforting and delicious even after a day or two!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your beef lombardi casserole, the right sides can take your meal to the next level! Here are some delicious pairings that I absolutely love:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice! The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini lightly steamed with a sprinkle of salt complement the hearty flavors beautifully.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a delightful contrast to the casserole’s textures.
Roasted Asparagus: Tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted asparagus brings a touch of elegance to the table.

These sides not only enhance your beef lombardi casserole experience but also make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal that your family will love!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.