Beef Lombardi Casserole

Beef Lombardi Casserole a hearty and comforting casserole layered with seasoned beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese topping, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. This dish combines rich, savory flavors with a cheesy, satisfying texture that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a complete meal in one dish, packed with protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness.

It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks or family dinners.

The ingredients are simple and easy to find, yet they come together in a way that feels special.

You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences.

Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup sour cream

2 cups cooked elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Beef Mixture:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread the cooked macaroni evenly in the bottom of the dish. Layer the beef mixture over the macaroni.

In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture over the beef layer.

Bake the Casserole:

Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to make it heartier.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-packed twist.

Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Parmesan, to switch up the flavor profile.

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Related Recipes:

• Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole
• Coconut Cream Lush

FAQs

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

I like to assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to bake, I simply add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?

Covering the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking can help lock in moisture, but I usually find that the tomato sauce and cheese keep it perfectly moist.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate casseroles. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

What should I serve with this casserole?

A simple side salad or some steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with this rich and cheesy casserole. Garlic bread is also a great addition.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or looking for a dish to impress at your next gathering, this casserole delivers. Give it a try—I think you’ll love it as much as I do.

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