This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese all in one baking dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners!
What I love most about this casserole is how the cheese gets all melty and gooey. It’s like a big warm hug on a plate. Just don’t forget the garlic bread on the side—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for this recipe. It cooks nicely without too much excess fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too!
Egg Noodles: Traditional egg noodles are perfect for this dish because they soak up the flavors nicely. If you don’t have them, feel free to swap with any pasta you have on hand, like macaroni or even penne!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can chop them up. For a spicier dish, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies for a little kick!
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess and protein. If cottage cheese isn’t your thing, ricotta cheese can be a great substitute for a similar texture but with a slightly different flavor.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella brings meltiness. I love using a blend of cheeses; try adding cheddar or provolone for extra flavor. Just keep the ratios roughly the same!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Layered?
Layering the casserole correctly is key to getting all the flavors just right. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with half the noodle mixture as your base in the greased baking dish. This helps keep the bottom from drying out.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top to create a creamy layer.
- Add the rest of the noodle mixture evenly on top of the cheese.
- Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a golden and bubbly topping.
Covering the dish with aluminum foil while baking helps steam the casserole, so it doesn’t dry out. Remove the foil to allow cheese on top to brown beautifully!
How to Make Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Beef Lombardi Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll spend around 1 hour before it’s ready to serve. You’ll love how simple it is to put together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s hot and ready for your casserole when you’re done assembling it.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. You want them to be al dente, which means they are cooked but still firm to the bite. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside to cool a bit.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until fully cooked through and no longer pink. Once it’s ready, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy.
4. Sauté the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, mixing it well with the beef.
5. Add the Sauces and Seasonings:
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to come together.
6. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked egg noodles, the beef mixture, and the cottage cheese. Mix everything well so that the noodles and beef are nicely coated with the mixture.
7. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of this layer. It’s going to be delicious!
8. Add the Remaining Mixture:
Now, layer the remaining noodle mixture over the cheese. Top everything off with the rest of the mozzarella cheese, making sure it’s evenly spread out.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty and comforting Beef Lombardi Casserole!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to brown it well to ensure it develops flavor. You might want to add a little extra seasoning since turkey can be milder.
What If I Don’t Have Cottage Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta cheese or even cream cheese for a creamier texture. If using cream cheese, soften it first for easier mixing.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and pop it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just cover with foil to prevent drying out!
