There is something undeniably comforting about a hearty casserole, and this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe hits every note perfectly. Loaded with savory seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and that rich combination of cream cheese and sour cream, this dish is the ultimate family pleaser. The sweet and slightly spicy tomatoes & chilies add just the right amount of zing, while the cheesy topping creates a golden, bubbly crust that invites you in with every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish that feels like a warm hug, this casserole delivers with flavor, texture, and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every one of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting the rich and balanced flavors of this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe. They are simple, accessible, and when combined, create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
- Olive oil: For a lightly fruity base to brown the beef and onions perfectly.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): The hearty protein that brings savory depth to the casserole.
- Onion (½, chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and texture to the meat mixture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Brings just enough mild heat to complement the dish.
- Tomato paste (4 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic warmth and richness.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A classic herb blend to bring Mediterranean flair.
- Diced tomatoes & chilies (3 cans, drained): Adds juicy tang and a mild kick to brighten the casserole.
- Celery salt (¼ teaspoon): Provides a subtle salty herb flavor that rounds out the sauce.
- Egg noodles (12 oz package): Tender yet firm pasta that holds up well during baking.
- Sour cream (1 ¼ cups): Brings creamy tanginess for a luscious sauce base.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds smoothness without overpowering.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the creamy noodle mixture to the perfect consistency.
- Colby Jack cheese (2 ½ cups shredded): Melts into a golden, gooey top that makes every serving irresistible.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Brown the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Then heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and lean ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are softened—approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Season this savory mixture with salt and black pepper to bring out the flavors.
Step 2: Create the Savory Sauce
Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained diced tomatoes & chilies. Let the sauce cook down for about 5 minutes, giving it time to thicken and the flavors to meld while stirring often to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles
While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the egg noodles and cook for just 3 minutes—they should still be very firm because they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain the noodles, but be sure to reserve 2 cups of the cooking water for the next step.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and ½ cup of the reserved noodle water until everything is smooth and well combined. Then stir in the cooked noodles along with the remaining reserved noodle water to loosen the mixture, creating a velvety sauce that gently coats the noodles.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish for easy serving and cleanup. Spread the creamy noodle mixture evenly in the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Next, top the noodles with the rich beef and tomato mixture and spread it evenly across the surface. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese generously over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden blanket. This final step transforms all those layers into one glorious, crowd-pleasing casserole.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or basil not only brightens the vibrant colors but also adds a fresh herbal note that complements the rich cheese and beef. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top can give an exciting kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like a green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal veggies such as green beans or broccoli. These fresh elements help balance out the indulgence of the creamy casserole and add a lovely contrast in texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for portion-controlled, ready-to-serve portions. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top before baking for an ultra-crispy crust that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and freshness, making it a superb option for meal prepping or family leftovers.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it securely, and stash it away for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a hassle-free dinner any day.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil to avoid drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions but add a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work best for their texture and ability to absorb the sauce, you can swap in rotini, penne, or even rigatoni. Just adjust cooking times to ensure pasta is al dente before baking.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils. Use vegetable broth and keep the cheese and cream for the creamy texture, or opt for dairy-free alternatives.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Colby Jack cheese?
Mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar all work well. The cheese should melt nicely and provide that same creamy, golden topping.
How spicy is the casserole with the diced tomatoes and chilies?
The heat level is quite mild because the chilies are balanced by the creamy cheese and sour cream. If you want to dial up the spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or using a hotter variety of diced chilies.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
For sure! Making the beef and tomato sauce a day ahead allows the flavors to fully develop. Just refrigerate it covered and reheat gently before assembling your casserole.
Final Thoughts
I honestly can’t recommend this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe enough; it’s one of those dishes that feels like home every single time. The combination of creamy noodles, smoky beef, and zesty tomato with melted cheese on top is an absolute triumph of comfort food. So next time you want something that’s easy to make but endlessly satisfying, dive into this casserole and watch it disappear fast.
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi is a comforting and hearty casserole featuring browned lean ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato and chili sauce, combined with tender egg noodles and a creamy cheese mixture, then baked to perfection with a golden melted Colby Jack cheese topping. This family-friendly dish brings together rich, savory flavors and a delightful cheesy texture in a one-dish meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons (3 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes & chilies (like Ro-Tel), drained
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt
Pasta
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles
Cheese Mixture
- 1 ¼ cups sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Brown Beef: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and lean ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, approximately 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance flavors.
- Make Sauce: Stir tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and the drained diced tomatoes & chilies into the browned beef mixture. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the liquid begins to reduce and flavors meld together.
- Cook Noodles: While the beef sauce cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them for only 3 minutes to keep them firm. Drain the noodles but reserve 2 cups of the cooking water for the cheese mixture.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and ½ cup of the reserved noodle water until smooth and creamy. Then stir in the partially cooked noodles along with the remaining reserved noodle water to gently loosen the mixture.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour in the cheesy noodle mixture. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Evenly spoon the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly across the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.
Notes
- Do not overcook noodles initially; firm noodles will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
- Draining the diced tomatoes & chilies prevents excess liquid, which helps avoid a watery casserole.
- The cornstarch in the cheese mixture helps thicken and stabilize the creamy texture during baking.
- Using lean ground beef keeps the dish flavorful but less greasy.
- Feel free to substitute Colby Jack cheese with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a similar taste.
