If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that brings the whole family together, look no further than this Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe. This dish beautifully combines tender ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with creamy layers of sour cream, cottage cheese, and plentiful cheesy noodles that bake to golden perfection. It’s a soul-satisfying casserole that balances bold flavors with that irresistible cheesy comfort, making it a go-to recipe for weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item plays its part in building the perfect balance of hearty texture, creamy richness, and vibrant color, pulling together a complete and satisfying meal.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity base for cooking the aromatics and beef without overpowering flavors.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The main protein that gives the casserole its hearty depth and satisfying bite.
- Small onion, diced: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic richness when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Adds warmth and a slight pungency to enhance overall flavor.
- Can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Provides a fresh tomato texture and juicy acidity that brightens the beef.
- Tomato paste (6 oz): Deepens the tomato flavor with a concentrated richness that binds the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural tastes and add a gentle kick.
- Dried oregano: Offers an herby earthiness that complements the tomato and beef beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle spark of heat if you want a little extra kick.
- Cooked egg noodles (2 cups): The chewy, tender foundations that soak up all the rich flavors and creamy cheese.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and slight tang to balance the savory beef sauce.
- Cottage cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a mild, creamy texture that keeps the casserole light and fresh.
- Sliced green onions (1/4 cup): Offer a crisp, fresh pop of color and brightness within the cream layer.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into a gooey, golden topping that ties every hearty layer together with pure cheesy delight.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and cook until they soften and turn translucent, about three minutes. Then, add the minced garlic for a quick 30 seconds, letting its fragrance bloom. Now, add the ground beef, breaking it apart so it browns evenly. Cook until no pink remains, and the mixture is beautifully caramelized. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Beef Sauce
To the browned beef, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld perfectly and thicken slightly into a rich, savory sauce that will soak into every noodle layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
While the beef simmers, grab a bowl and mix together the sour cream, cottage cheese, and sliced green onions. This creamy blend adds a tangy, fresh counterpoint to the savory beef sauce and keeps the casserole delightfully moist and creamy inside.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and start by spreading half of your cooked egg noodles on the bottom. Layer half of the sour cream mixture evenly next, followed by half of the rich beef sauce. Repeat these layers one more time, creating a hearty casserole with depth. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, ensuring a luscious, bubbly cheese crust after baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled casserole in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly masterpiece and the dish is heated through thoroughly. Let it rest about five minutes after baking to allow everything to settle and thicken just right before serving.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really elevate your Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe. Sprinkle extra sliced green onions or a handful of freshly chopped parsley right before serving for a burst of color and herbal brightness that contrasts the rich flavors effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads tossed in a light vinaigrette or steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans, which add a fresh crunch. For a heartier meal, crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls work beautifully to scoop up any leftover cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. Another fun twist is layering in a bit of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers between layers for extra texture and flavor variety, keeping the spirit of the Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe but adding your own twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making next-day servings even more delicious.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes very well. To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding about 15 to 20 minutes to the original bake time for a fully warmed and bubbly result.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave until heated through or place the casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil, baking for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating ensures a melty finish every time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this casserole?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and perfect for soaking up the sauce, you can also use rotini, penne, or even shells. Just be sure to cook them al dente, so they don’t turn mushy during baking.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese if I don’t have any?
Yes, you can swap cottage cheese for ricotta or even Greek yogurt. Ricotta offers a similar creamy texture with a slightly sweeter flavor, while Greek yogurt adds tang and lightness, keeping the casserole delicious.
How spicy is this casserole with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that balances nicely with the rich cheese and beef. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to leave them out entirely—it’s still a wonderfully flavorful dish.
Can I prepare this Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! This is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Assemble it the day before, cover it, and refrigerate until baking. This allows the flavors to meld even better, and it saves time on busy nights.
What should I serve with this casserole for a balanced meal?
Pair it with a green salad and steamed vegetables for a fresh contrast or crunchy side bread to soak up that delicious cheesy sauce. Adding these simple sides keeps the meal balanced and varied in textures.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — full of comfort, flavor, and love. It’s simple to make yet impressive enough to bring everyone to the table with big smiles and full hearts. I truly encourage you to try this recipe and make it a staple in your kitchen; once you do, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite for busy weeknights or special family dinners.
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole with Cheesy Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi is a comforting American casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, cheesy egg noodles, and a creamy sour cream and cottage cheese mixture, all baked to bubbly perfection. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and can be easily prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Sauté: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, and sliced green onions. Mix well to create a creamy layer for the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked egg noodles on the bottom, followed by half of the sour cream mixture and then half of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set slightly and make serving easier.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use ricotta in place of cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble ahead of time and bake directly from frozen. Just add 15–20 minutes to the bake time.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Use whole wheat egg noodles for a healthier option.
