Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the best of a pasta bake and a savory beef casserole. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this casserole is topped with melted cheese for a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, Beef Lombardi Casserole is easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni or rotini pasta (uncooked)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Cook the pasta:

1. Boil the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the beef mixture:

2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the casserole:

4. Combine pasta and beef mixture: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in the heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
5. Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake the casserole:

6. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Serve:

7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Notes:

• Meat Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
• Vegetarian Version: For a meatless version, replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a blend of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion:

Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or prepping for the week ahead. With its hearty flavors and satisfying texture, Beef Lombardi Casserole is sure to become a go-to meal for your family and friends. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for the perfect dinner.