beef Lombardi Casserole

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Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal featuring tender egg noodles smothered in a creamy sour cream and cream cheese sauce, layered with a savory, spiced ground beef and tomato mixture, then topped with melted Colby Jack cheese. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole blends bold Italian flavors with creamy richness for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Protein-packed: Ground beef makes this a hearty, filling meal

• Ultra cheesy: Layers of Colby Jack melt into gooey perfection

• Mild heat: Diced tomatoes with chilies add subtle spice

• Creamy comfort: A tangy sour cream and cream cheese mixture elevates the noodles

• Make-ahead & freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prep or sharing

Ingredients Breakdown:

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Used to sauté beef and onions for a rich base.

• 1 pound lean ground beef
  Provides hearty protein and flavor.

• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  Adds sweetness and texture.

• 1 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  Season and enhance the savory flavors.

• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
  Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Adds aromatic depth.

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  Brings classic Italian herb notes.

• 3 cans (10 oz each) diced tomatoes with chilies, drained
  Adds tangy tomato and mild heat.

• 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
  Adds subtle savory complexity.

For the Noodles and Cream Sauce:

• 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles
  Tender pasta base.

• 1 1/4 cups sour cream
  Creates a creamy, tangy sauce.

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  Adds richness and smooth texture.

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  Thickens the cream sauce.

For Topping:

• 2 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
  Melts to a bubbly, golden crust.

Pro Tips:

• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

• Don’t overcook noodles: They’ll finish cooking in the oven—undercooked is better than mushy.

• Substitute cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well if Colby Jack isn’t available.

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage & Freezing:

Refrigerate:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze:

• Let the baked casserole cool completely.

• Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, covered with foil.

Variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Lighten it up with leaner meat.

• Add veggies: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

• Spicy version: Use hot diced tomatoes with chilies or add cayenne to the beef.

• Low-carb: Swap egg noodles for spiralized zucchini or cooked spaghetti squash.

Pairing Ideas:

• Sides:

  • Garlic bread

  • Green salad with vinaigrette

  • Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Drinks:

  • Iced tea

  • Sparkling water with lemon

FAQ:

Can I use regular diced tomatoes instead?

Yes, but you’ll miss the mild heat—add a small can of green chilies for a similar effect.

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Add 5–10 minutes to the bake time if cold.

Is this a freezer-friendly casserole?

Yes! It freezes well both before and after baking.

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