Looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make? Look no further than the Beef Lombardi Casserole—a rich, hearty, and cheesy baked dish that's packed with savory flavors. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Read on for a detailed recipe, cooking tips, and expert advice to make your Beef Lombardi Casserole truly irresistible!

What is Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a delicious baked dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, cheese, and sour cream. This comfort food is like a hybrid of lasagna and a cheesy pasta bake, making it perfect for cozy family meals or casual gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dish that's guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients List for Beef Lombardi Casserole
Before diving into the cooking process, let's gather all the necessary ingredients for this casserole. You’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or substitute with another pasta)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)
These ingredients combine to create the casserole’s signature layers of beef, tomato, creamy cheese, and pasta.
Substitutions and Variations for Beef Lombardi Casserole
Like most casseroles, this recipe is flexible and adaptable based on your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations and substitutions to consider:
- Ground Beef Substitute: You can replace the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Pasta Variations: Egg noodles are the traditional pasta for this recipe, but feel free to use penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Cheese Options: Swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for a heartier, nutrient-packed dish.
- Spice Level: If you like a little heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef sauce.
Now that we’ve covered possible ingredient adjustments, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating your perfect Beef Lombardi Casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your egg noodles or chosen pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss the cooked noodles in a little olive oil to keep them from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the casserole components.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is browned, remove any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Tomato-Based Sauce
To the beef mixture, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Mix the Cheese Layer
While the sauce simmers, combine the sour cream and ricotta cheese in a bowl. Stir until well-blended, then set this mixture aside. This will be the creamy, cheesy layer that helps give the casserole its signature texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish (9x13 inches), start by spreading half of the cooked noodles on the bottom of the dish. Next, layer half of the beef and tomato mixture on top of the noodles. Then, spread half of the sour cream and ricotta mixture over the beef layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cheese mixture.
Step 7: Top with Shredded Cheese
Once the casserole is layered, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. This will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 9: Let it Rest and Garnish
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, for a pop of color and added flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue cooking in the oven and can become mushy if overcooked during the boiling step.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: If using regular ground beef, be sure to drain off the fat after browning the meat. Too much fat can make the casserole greasy.
- Skipping the Simmering Step: Don’t rush the simmering process for the beef sauce. Allowing the sauce to cook for at least 10-15 minutes ensures that the flavors fully develop.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your sour cream and ricotta mixture is at room temperature before layering. Cold ingredients can affect the overall texture and consistency of the casserole.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation and serving are just as important as taste when it comes to making your Beef Lombardi Casserole stand out. Here are some ideas to enhance the experience:
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Casserole
Serve the casserole hot, fresh out of the oven. Since it’s a rich and filling dish, pair it with lighter sides such as a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Breadsticks or garlic bread also make a great accompaniment, soaking up the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Layer Visibility: If you’re serving guests, use a glass casserole dish to show off the layers of noodles, beef, and cheese.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of each slice for added color and a fresh aroma.
- Portion Control: Slice the casserole into neat squares or rectangles before serving. This not only looks professional but also makes it easier for guests to serve themselves.
Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking as instructed.
- Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply assemble the dish but hold off on baking it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole and bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great dish for meal prepping or for entertaining.
Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?
Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to create a satisfying vegetarian version.
How can I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
Make sure to drain the fat from the beef after browning it, especially if you’re using regular ground beef. Lean ground beef or ground turkey are great alternatives for a lighter version.
What other pasta can I use if I don’t have egg noodles?
You can substitute egg noodles with penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente before assembling the casserole.
Conclusion
The Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing a make-ahead meal for a busy weeknight or serving a crowd at a casual dinner party, this casserole is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the hearty goodness that only a classic casserole can provide!
PrintBeef Lombardi Casserole Recipe
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish made with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, noodles, tomatoes, and cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Rich in taste and texture, it’s a complete meal in one dish with plenty of creamy and cheesy layers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Egg noodles
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef with garlic in a skillet, drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper, and simmer.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- Combine noodles with sour cream, cheese, and green onions.
- Layer the beef mixture and noodles in a casserole dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers store well and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
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