The Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing meal. This casserole perfectly balances tender ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with creamy layers of macaroni and melty cheeses, creating a warm and satisfying dish that your family will request again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe hits all the right notes with ease and incredible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward ingredients is half the fun of this recipe, and each one plays a vital role in building the casserole’s deep flavors and textures. From the savory ground beef to the sharp cheddar and creamy sour cream, this list is proof that you don’t need complicated components to impress your taste buds.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a little bite to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant boost that enhances every layer of flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Delivers juicy acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, cohesive base for the beef sauce.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a subtle smoky warmth without overwhelming heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a sweet earthiness that deepens the color and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and lifting all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and layers of complexity.
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni: The perfect tender pasta to soak up the sauce and hold the dish together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Lends creaminess and tang that keeps the casserole luscious.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it brings a rich, savory punch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey stretchiness and mild flavor topping.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your ground beef together with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft. This initial step builds the foundation of bold, savory flavors. Remember to drain off any excess grease so your casserole doesn’t get greasy but stays rich and balanced.
Step 2: Simmer with Tomatoes and Spices
Once your beef is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes (with liquid), tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. This simmering step intensifies the sauce and gives the casserole that hearty, comforting tomato-beef base that everyone loves.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin by spreading the cooked elbow macaroni evenly across the bottom of the dish. Then, layer the rich beef mixture on top, creating that irresistible structure that makes each bite perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Cheese Layer
Mix together the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined, then spread this creamy blend evenly over the beef layer. This luscious step adds moisture and tang that soften the casserole’s texture while introducing a delightful cheesy goodness that complements the savory beef.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese along with the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Pop it into the oven uncovered and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden. This baking time allows the flavors to meld and the textures to unify into a truly inviting dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Just before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, crisp finish that brightens every forkful. Now, you’re ready to dig into your delicious creation!
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like green onions introduces a bright, fresh contrast that cuts through the richness of the casserole. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few red pepper flakes can add color and an exciting flavor pop that makes the dish visually stunning and even more delicious.
Side Dishes
Because the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is so hearty, it pairs beautifully with light, crisp side dishes. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus provides a refreshing counterpoint, balancing the meal with fresh textures and bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or bake it as mini portions for a party. You could also layer it in a clear glass casserole dish, letting the colorful layers peek through, which makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or enjoying a quick, delicious lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months, allowing you to pull out a comforting dinner whenever you need it without the hassle of prepping from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. To avoid drying out the casserole, you can add a splash of water or extra sour cream before reheating for the creamiest texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic in this recipe, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even small shells depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to make a vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain that rich, savory flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just increase the baking time by a few minutes and bake until heated through and bubbly.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness. However, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a personalized touch.
How spicy is the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe?
This casserole is mildly spiced thanks to the chili powder and paprika, which add warmth without heat. If you prefer a bit of a kick, simply increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe enough for anyone craving a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s truly a recipe that brings people together, making every mealtime feel special and full of flavor. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and macaroni, layered with creamy sour cream and melted cheese. Perfect for a family meal, this casserole combines savory flavors with cheesy goodness, topped with fresh green onions for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese Layers
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being oily.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked elbow macaroni evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon and spread the beef mixture evenly over the macaroni layer.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese Layers: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly on top of the beef layer, creating a rich creamy topping.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese along with the shredded mozzarella over the sour cream layer, covering the casserole to create a gooey, melted cheese crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and attractive color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this casserole.
- Make sure to use cooked macaroni that is not overly soft to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
