Beef Lombardi Casserole – A Hearty, Family-Friendly Dinner
If you’re looking for a comforting, filling meal that’s easy to make and loved by everyone in the family, this Beef Lombardi Casserole is the answer! It’s a delicious, cheesy casserole made with layers of ground beef, pasta, and a rich, savory tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this hearty dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add 1 diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Stir in 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce is simmering, cook 8 ounces of uncooked pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef sauce mixture, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness of this Beef Lombardi Casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Lombardi Casserole:
This Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! It combines rich flavors from the beef and tomato sauce, while the gooey melted cheese adds the perfect finishing touch. The sour cream creates a creamy texture, making each bite extra satisfying. It’s a great way to feed your family with minimal effort while serving a delicious, filling dish.
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheese based on what you have on hand. Add some provolone, gouda, or Parmesan for a twist.
- Add Veggies: To make this casserole even more nutritious, you can stir in some vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the beef mixture.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any type of short pasta like penne, rotini, or ziti works great for this casserole. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it holds up during baking.
Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Classic Beef Lasagna: Another comforting casserole dish with layers of noodles, meat, and cheese.
- Baked Ziti: A cheesy, easy pasta bake with marinara sauce and mozzarella.
- Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake: A Tex-Mex twist on the classic pasta bake with seasoned ground beef.
Final Thoughts:
Beef Lombardi Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone who loves comforting, cheesy pasta meals. With its rich tomato sauce, savory beef, and layers of melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Try this recipe today and watch it become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
