Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, layered dish full of rich flavors and satisfying textures. This classic American casserole features seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, creamy sour cream, tender noodles, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a cozy, filling dinner that the whole family will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarliccrushed tomatoes or tomato saucesaltblack pepperItalian seasoningsour creamcream cheeseegg yolkscooked egg noodlescheddar cheeseshredded mozzarella cheese

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened.

Stir in crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, and egg yolks. Mix until smooth.

Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.

Layer half the noodles in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Spread half of the cream mixture over the noodles, then add half the beef sauce.

Repeat layers with remaining noodles, cream mixture, and meat sauce.

Top evenly with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with melted, golden cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.

Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Top with crushed tortilla chips or French fried onions for added crunch.

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

What are egg yolks used for in this recipe?

They help bind the creamy layer and give it a richer texture.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, rotini or penne work well too, as long as they’re cooked al dente.

Is it necessary to brown the meat first?

Yes, browning adds flavor and removes excess fat, which helps the casserole set properly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, both baked and unbaked versions freeze well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.

Can I use low-fat cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cheese will melt better and have more flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your tomato sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.

How do I prevent it from being too runny?

Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking to help it firm up before serving.

What sides go well with this?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole is the epitome of comfort food—rich, cheesy, and layered with love. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a classic casserole that never goes out of style.