Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, creamy cheeses, and hearty egg noodles in a rich tomato sauce. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, as it can be made in advance and reheated. With its delicious layers of flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
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1 pound lean ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 tablespoons tomato paste
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3 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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12 ounces wide egg noodles
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1¼ cups sour cream
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4 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 to 2½ cups shredded cheese (such as Colby Jack or cheddar)
Method of Preparation
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Add Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, drained diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
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Prepare the Noodles: While the beef mixture cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook for about 3 minutes (they will continue cooking in the oven). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Make the Creamy Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and reserved pasta water until smooth.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles to the beef mixture and stir well. Then fold in the creamy mixture until everything is well combined.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with shredded cheese.
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Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
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Don’t Overcook Noodles: Since the noodles will continue cooking in the oven, make sure to undercook them slightly.
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Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Lombardi Casserole is delicious on its own but pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. It also makes excellent leftovers that can be reheated easily for lunch or dinner.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
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Ground Beef: A good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
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Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants such as lycopene which may support heart health.
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Egg Noodles: Provide carbohydrates for energy; choose whole wheat varieties for added fiber.
Summary of Recipe
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty dish featuring ground beef, creamy cheeses, and egg noodles baked in a savory tomato sauce. This recipe serves about 6–8 people and takes approximately 1 hour from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This casserole is loved for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures that make it perfect for family meals. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with different cheeses or spices based on personal preferences.
Interesting Facts
The origins of Beef Lombardi are somewhat unclear, with various stories claiming its creation in different regions of Italy or America. This casserole reflects the heartiness of Italian-American cuisine, where comfort food often combines pasta with rich sauces and meats.
In summary, Delicious Beef Lombardi Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table! Enjoy this delightful recipe with family and friends!
