I first stumbled upon Beef Lombardi Casserole at a family potluck, where my aunt set it down on the table, and it was gone in minutes. The creamy, cheesy layers mixed with savory beef had everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this casserole has you covered.
Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for leftovers—if there are any, LOL!
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Family-Friendly: A dish that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
- Flavor-Packed: Creamy, cheesy, and savory in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Beef Lombardi Casserole
For this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 package egg noodles – A hearty base that soaks up all the savory flavors.
- 1 lb lean ground beef – The main protein, providing a rich, meaty flavor.
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese – Adds gooey, melty goodness.
- 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A flavorful blend of herbs.
- 2 ½ cans diced tomatoes & chilies – Brings in a slight kick and juicy texture.
- 3.5 oz cream cheese – For a creamy, tangy layer.
- 3 ½ tablespoons tomato paste – Deepens the tomato flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – To sauté the aromatics.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a sweet and savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – A little kick of heat.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – For that aromatic touch.
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt – Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.
- 1 ¼ cups sour cream – Creamy richness for the casserole layers.
- 2 bay leaves – Infuse a mild herbal note during cooking.
Optional Add-ons
- Green Bell Peppers – Adds a slight crunch and freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – For those who love extra heat.
- Black Olives – Brings a salty, briny contrast.
- Shredded Mozzarella – For an even cheesier finish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet – To cook the beef and sauce mixture.
- Large Pot – For boiling the egg noodles.
- Mixing Bowls – To combine ingredients.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Perfect for layering and baking.
- Wooden Spoon – For stirring the sauce and noodles.
- Aluminum Foil – To cover during baking to prevent over-browning.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef Lombardi Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt to enhance the noodles’ flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add the egg noodles. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—tender but still slightly firm when bitten. Drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess grease, drain it carefully to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes & chilies, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, celery salt, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring the beef is fully coated in the tomato mixture. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the sauce, allowing it to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove the bay leaves before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth and well blended. This layer adds richness and balances the tomato-based beef mixture.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Start layering by spreading half the egg noodles evenly at the bottom. Spoon half the beef mixture on top, followed by half the creamy layer. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers—noodles, beef, creamy mixture—finishing with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite toppings before serving. Enjoy!
Best Paired With
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Green Salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables – Adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Storage and Serving
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual servings.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: They will continue cooking in the oven.
- Let It Rest: Resting after baking helps the layers hold together.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For a richer, creamier texture.
- Double the Recipe: It freezes well for future meals.
Substitutes and Variations
- Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner protein option.
- Gluten-Free Noodles – To make it gluten-free.
- Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream – For a tangier twist.
- Add Spinach or Kale – To sneak in some greens.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
What Others Are Saying About The Recipe
Erin T. – “I wasn’t sure at first, but wow—so good! Super hearty, super cheesy, and the leftovers? Even better the next day.”
Angel R. – “Brought this to a potluck and left with an empty dish and tons of recipe requests. Absolute crowd-pleaser!”
Gina H. – “It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a big plate! Perfect for Netflix nights!”
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
Rotini or penne work great, or try gluten-free pasta.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Definitely! But if your kids are sensitive to spice, use plain diced tomatoes instead of ones with chilies.
Final Thoughts
I love how versatile this Beef Lombardi Casserole is—you can stick to the classic or add your own twist with extra veggies, different cheeses, or a little extra heat. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments or snap a pic and tag me. Enjoy every cheesy bite!