Name: Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil, for cooking.; 1 lb lean ground beef.; ½ onion, chopped.; 1 tsp salt, for seasoning.; ½ tsp black pepper, for seasoning.; 4 tbsp tomato paste.; 3 cloves garlic, minced.; 1 tsp Italian seasoning.; 3 cans (10 oz each) diced tomatoes with chilies, drained.; ¼ tsp celery salt.; 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles.; 1¼ cups sour cream.; 4 oz cream cheese, softened.; 1 tbsp cornstarch.; 2½ cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded.

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a classic and satisfying comfort food that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and hearty egg noodles. The dish starts with cooking the beef and onions, adding in flavorful seasonings, tomatoes, and a hint of celery salt. The boiled noodles are combined with a creamy cheese mixture and layered with the beef mixture in a baking dish. Topped with Colby Jack cheese and baked until golden and bubbly, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, classic dish loved for its hearty ingredients and rich flavors. It brings together seasoned ground beef, tangy tomatoes, egg noodles, and a creamy cheese blend, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or gatherings. This casserole is known for its simple preparation and satisfying taste, making it a go-to for weeknight meals.

INGREDIENTS

Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, for sautéing the beef and onion
Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb, adds a hearty protein base
Onion: ½, chopped, for flavor
Salt: 1 tsp, for seasoning
Black Pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
Tomato Paste: 4 tbsp, for a tangy tomato flavor
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, adds aromatic depth
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp, for an herby touch
Diced Tomatoes with Chilies: 3 cans (10 oz each), drained, for a tangy and spicy kick
Celery Salt: ¼ tsp, for a hint of celery flavor
Egg Noodles: 1 package (12 oz), boiled and drained
Sour Cream: 1¼ cups, adds creaminess to the sauce
Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened, for a smooth texture
Cornstarch: 1 tbsp, helps thicken the cheese mixture
Colby Jack Cheese: 2½ cups, shredded, for a cheesy topping

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2:: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3:: Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
Step 4:: Boil the egg noodles for 3 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of noodle water before draining the noodles.
Step 5:: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and ½ cup of reserved noodle water until smooth.
Step 6:: Mix the cooked noodles with the remaining reserved noodle water, then transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly on top.
Step 7:: Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the casserole.
Step 8:: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving and Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

For a spicier version, add extra chili flakes or use spicy diced tomatoes.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles and cornstarch.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Tip: Add a splash of red wine to the beef mixture for a richer flavor.

Elevating the Beef Lombardi Casserole

To enhance the flavors, try using smoked paprika in the beef mixture or adding sliced black olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings

This casserole can be doubled or tripled for large gatherings, making it a popular choice for potlucks or family reunions.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of cheeses for the topping.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and cheesy goodness make it popular with kids.

Summary

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a timeless comfort food dish that offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy textures. This dish layers cooked ground beef, aromatic onion, tangy tomato paste, and Italian seasoning over soft egg noodles mixed with a rich cheese blend. The addition of sour cream and cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats the noodles perfectly. It’s then topped with shredded Colby Jack cheese and baked to golden perfection. Easy to make, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, feeding a crowd, or bringing to potlucks. With its hearty ingredients and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.