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
Scale
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.
