Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish featuring layers of savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and creamy cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly casserole perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey if preferred)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese Layers
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is fully browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Prepare the Noodles: While the meat simmers, cook the egg noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions until tender. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, blend together the sour cream and cottage cheese until smooth. This mixture will add a rich, creamy layer to the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked egg noodles at the bottom. Spoon half of the simmered meat mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half of the sour cream and cottage cheese mixture. Repeat this layering process once more with the remaining noodles, meat, and creamy mixture.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top of the assembled layers. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- For added vegetables, consider stirring in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the meat.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the meat mixture.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a bright, fresh flavor and color contrast.
- Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
