If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender beef, creamy cheeses, and a flavorful tomato base, this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole blends simple pantry staples like elbow macaroni and tomato sauce with aromatic spices and a perfect cheese combo, creating a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy family dinner. The magic lies in how the savory beef melds with the tangy tomato sauce and the richness of sour cream and melted cheese, making every bite deliciously memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward but crucial to achieving the right balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays its part—whether it’s the sharpness of cheddar or the gentle heat of paprika—to elevate this casserole to a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings juicy acidity and freshness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Thickens the sauce and enhances tomato richness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Imparts a subtle spicy warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives earthiness and a vibrant reddish hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, complementary heat.
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni: The comforting pasta base that soaks up all the sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and tang to enrich the casserole layers.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharpness and meltiness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides stretchy, gooey cheese goodness.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet along with chopped onions and minced garlic. This builds a flavorful base as the onions soften and the garlic releases its aroma. Once the beef is fully browned, be sure to drain any excess grease to avoid a heavy texture later on.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Next, stir in your diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to marry beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. This step is key to infusing that rich, comforting taste that makes the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe so memorable.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the cooked elbow macaroni evenly across the bottom—this will serve as the hearty foundation. Then layer the beef mixture evenly on top, making sure every scoop of pasta is ready to soak up that savory sauce.
Step 4: Add Creamy Cheese Layer
Combine the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer. This step creates a luscious, tangy layer that enriches the casserole with a velvety texture that contrasts perfectly with the meaty sauce and pasta below.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and all of the mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Pop your casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. When the cheese melts and bubbles with golden spots, you know it’s ready. This final baking melds everything into a hot, gooey masterpiece.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let your Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe cool for about five minutes once out of the oven. This brief rest helps the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve without losing any of the cheesy goodness. Finally, garnish with freshly sliced green onions to add brightness and color before diving in.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding sliced green onions is the classic way to finish off this casserole, lending a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color that makes the dish as inviting to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, balancing the richness of the casserole with light, fresh accompaniments. A crusty garlic bread also makes a delightful side, perfect for scooping up every last cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This makes each portion look charming and personalized, ideal for parties or family dinners. You can also layer it in a clear glass baking dish to show off the beautiful layers of pasta, beef, and cheese before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole actually tastes great the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze the Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe for longer storage by placing it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To freeze, consider assembling the casserole but holding off on the final cheese topping to maintain the best texture after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again, usually about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway, for a quick meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce well, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even small shells. Just make sure it is cooked al dente to avoid becoming mushy during baking.
Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
Yes, you can increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes also work well to add more heat without overwhelming the dish.
Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
If you want a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute that still adds creaminess and tang. Just be sure to use full-fat yogurt to keep the texture rich and avoid curdling during baking.
What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
Choosing ground beef with about 80% lean content balances flavor and fat, ensuring your casserole stays juicy but not greasy. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, though the taste will be slightly different.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Add extra seasoning and perhaps a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian version) to keep the rich, umami flavor intact.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its straightforward ingredients come together in such a flavorful, cheesy, and hearty way that it quickly turns into a family favorite. I encourage you to try it out soon, whether for a weeknight supper or a special gathering—this casserole is sure to bring smiles and second helpings!
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of cheeses. Enhanced with diced tomatoes and aromatic spices, this casserole is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- 1 lb ground beef
Pasta and Cheese Layer
- 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 with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture gently for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: While the beef mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for assembly.
- Assemble the Casserole Base: Spread the cooked elbow macaroni evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, spread the prepared beef mixture over the macaroni layer.
- Layer Sour Cream and Cheese: In a bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the beef layer to add creaminess and flavor.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese along with the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top to create a deliciously cheesy crust after baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving warm for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- For a leaner version, use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead to save time on the day of baking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- To make the casserole spicier, increase chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
