Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting, easy dinner? Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe is a great choice. It combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a savory tomato sauce. This casserole is perfect for family dinners or when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

This dish has layers of rich flavors. The beef is seasoned and cooked with onions, and then combined with tender pasta.

The tomato sauce adds a tangy base, while melted cheese brings everything together. It’s hearty and filling, making it an ideal dinner option for any night of the week.

What is Beef Lombardi Casserole?

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a layered dish made with ground beef, pasta, and cheese. It’s often baked until bubbly and golden on top. The casserole has a rich tomato sauce base with the perfect blend of seasonings.

The pasta used is typically elbow macaroni or a similar shape. The ground beef is seasoned and browned, adding flavor and texture. The dish is topped with cheese and then baked until everything melts together.

It’s similar to lasagna, but it’s quicker and easier to make. You don’t need to worry about layering noodles, sauce, or ricotta. This casserole is one of those easy, comforting meals everyone loves.

Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Here’s how you can make this delicious Beef Lombardi Casserole:

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil.
6. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
7. In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni with the beef mixture.
8. Layer the mixture in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
• You can use any short pasta like penne or ziti.
• To make the casserole creamier, mix in some ricotta cheese or sour cream.
• Make sure the macaroni is cooked al dente since it will soften more in the casserole.
• You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.

FAQs About Beef Lombardi Casserole

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef. It will change the flavor but still be delicious.
2. Can I freeze Beef Lombardi Casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
4. How do I make the casserole spicier?
   Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some heat.
5. What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
   You can substitute with any cheese that melts well, like cheddar or provolone.

What To Serve with Beef Lombardi Casserole

This casserole is a filling meal on its own, but serving it with sides can make it even better. Here are some great sides to pair with Beef Lombardi Casserole:

1. Garlic Bread
   Garlic bread is a classic side for casseroles. The crispy, buttery bread complements the cheesy, savory casserole perfectly.
2. Green Salad
   A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich casserole. Toss with your favorite dressing and enjoy!
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini are a great side. They’re healthy and add color to the plate.
4. Steamed Asparagus
   Steamed asparagus has a mild flavor that pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
5. Mashed Potatoes
   If you want a heartier side, mashed potatoes are a perfect match. They’re soft and creamy, balancing the texture of the casserole.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover Beef Lombardi Casserole, follow these steps:

1. Cool the casserole before storing it.
2. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
3. Refrigerate the casserole for up to 3-4 days.
4. To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to 3 months.
5. When ready to reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot.

Concluding Remarks

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a perfect, easy dinner for busy nights. With its savory beef, cheesy layers, and pasta, it’s a meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s also a great make-ahead dish that you can store for later use.

Try this recipe for a simple but satisfying meal. You can always customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Beef Lombardi Casserole is sure to be a hit!

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