If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory ground beef and tender noodles, then you will absolutely love this Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe. This dish brings together simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying casserole that warms you up from the inside out. With layers of flavorful tomato sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and melty cheddar on top, this is one of those dishes that feels like a big, delicious hug straight from the oven. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds once they get a taste of this savory delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish shine. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy blend of cheeses, every component works together to elevate the cozy feel of this bake.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the beef and soften the onions, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty backbone of the casserole.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a wonderful aromatic punch.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Brings moisture and a fresh, slightly tangy note.
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian herb flavor that brightens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to round out the tomato mixture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives the casserole a smooth, tangy creaminess.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, velvety texture when mixed with the sour cream.
- 3 green onions, chopped: Adds freshness and a mild onion bite to the creamy layer.
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles: The comforting pasta base that soaks up all the savory sauce.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the ground beef and aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and the onions soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release those lovely garlicky aromas. This step builds the flavor foundation of your casserole.
Step 2: Create the rich tomato sauce
Once the beef mixture is ready, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes while you stir occasionally. This simmers down the tomatoes and herbs into a luscious, well-seasoned sauce that will coat the noodles beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the creamy cheese layer
While the sauce is simmering, take a separate bowl and combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a dreamy tangy richness as a middle layer between the noodles and savory beef sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cooked egg noodles evenly on the bottom. Next, gently spoon and spread the cream cheese mixture over the noodles, creating a smooth layer. Carefully top this with the beef and tomato sauce mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese liberally over the top to create that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake until bubbly and golden
Pop the casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set for clean, delicious slices.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up each serving of the beef lombardi casserole, fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or extra green onion slices work beautifully. They add color contrast and a slight freshness that complements the rich, cheesy flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch provide a nice balance against the smooth and hearty casserole, rounding out the meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider placing the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions or layering it in a trifle dish for a fun visual effect. Another idea is to sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra special twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist and fresh. Reheat portions as needed without losing that cozy, cheesy character you love.
Freezing
You can prepare the Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe ahead and freeze it before baking. Wrap the assembled dish securely in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This helps maintain the moist texture and keeps the cheese delightfully melty. Microwaving works in a pinch but may cause dryness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are fantastic for this recipe because they hold the sauce well, you can use penne, rotini, or even small shells depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook them al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite meatless crumble. Adjust the seasoning slightly to boost the umami flavor since you won’t have the rich beef component.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture can add delicious texture and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions before combining with the ground beef to enhance their flavor.
What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and offers great flavor contrast here, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooier top or a blend of provolone and parmesan to add complexity.
How spicy is this recipe?
This casserole is mild and kid-friendly, with just a hint of black pepper heat. If you like things spicier, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the tomato sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, savory, and satisfying. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but comforting enough to serve for special occasions. I encourage you to give it a go, share it with your loved ones, and make some delicious memories with this cozy, cheesy bake!
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Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Cozy Cheesy Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a cozy, cheesy baked dish that layers savory ground beef tomato sauce with creamy cheese mixtures and tender egg noodles. This comforting American classic combines rich flavors of seasoned beef, tangy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese into an irresistible casserole perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 green onions, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix until the blend is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the cooked egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the noodles and spread gently to cover. Top this layer evenly with the beef and tomato sauce mixture.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring every bite will have a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier portions.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving for convenience.
- For extra flavor and texture, sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers can be added to the beef mixture.
