What is comfort food? My family loves Beef Lombardi. We’re diving headfirst into my favorite. Think of it as lasagna’s richer, more flavorful cousin – but honestly, it’s so much simpler to make! What are some of the best cheeses in the world? Is this a symphony of flavors that will have everyone begging for seconds? I’ve made this Beef Lombardi recipe more times than I can count, always tweaking and improving. What made it so popular that it became the ultimate crowd-pleaser?
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What is Beef Lombardi?
What is Beef Lombardi? Layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a robust and deeply flavorful beef sauce simmered to perfection. What’s better, a generous helping of melted cheese? What is the magic of Lombardi sauce? This isn’t your average marinara; it’s It’s a rich, almost decadent sauce packed with savory beef, herbs, and an ingredient or two. What is the best way to describe a person in Is it hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to warm you from the inside out? What is the kind of dish that just screams “family dinner”?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is a good recipe for Beef Lombardi? It’s an experience. What I love the most is the flavor – it’s so rich and complex, it tastes like you’ve been slaving away. Is it really that easy to make a meal in the kitchen? What is the best combination of savory beef, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant herbs? What are some of the best things about this dish? I don’t need to be a professional chef to whip this up. The ingredient list is straightforward, and the steps are clear and simple to follow. What’s a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you need to eat quick and satisfying meals? Let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness. The ingredients are relatively inexpensive, making this a great option for feeding dozens of people on supper. Is it so versatile? Can you customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices? Think of it as a cross between Bolognese and baked ziti, but with an extra layer of cheesy cheese. It’s easier than making lasagna, tastier than most pasta bakes and has always been a firm family tradition. I swear my kids ask for this more than pizza some weeks!
How do I make Beef Lombardi?
Quick Overview
How do I make Beef Lombardi? How do I make a Lombardi sauce? What’s the best way to layer everything in a baking dish with your favorite pasta and plenty of cheese? What is the best part? Is it possible to do everything in one pan? Is it true that the aroma alone will have everyone drooling?
Ingredients
What is the Lombardi Sauce?
- 2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon of almond oil
- One large onion, chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 clove,
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (I prefer lean ground meat for less grease)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano are the best!)
- 1 can tomato sauce. 1 (15 ounces) can .1 can.
- 1 can tomato paste. 1 cup tomato sauce. 3 ounces. Can tomato
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano per teaspoon.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds amazing depth of flavor – a dry Chianti works great!)
- 1 bay leaf (don’t forget to remove it before serving) – 1 tsp.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes)
For Pasta & Cheese: How do I prepare it?
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti works well)
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese (whole milk gives the best flavor and texture)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. 1/4 cup parsley cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten. 1 boiled egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. 2 tbsp.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Don’t overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. How do you drain off grease?
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The smell alone is incredible!
Step 4: Build the Lombardi Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red wine (if using) and salt. What are some examples of bay leaf, sugar, and salt. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you can’t stir for a full hour, stir occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. I always do this on a Sunday afternoon – it makes the whole house smell amazing.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, ricotta, and salt. Set aside. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. This mixture adds the perfect creamy layer to the Beef Lombardi.
Step 6: Assemble the Beef Lombardi
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with about half of the Lombardi sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Then, spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add half the pasta mixture, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, and then half a cup of sour cream. Repeat with remaining ingredients. What is mozzarella cheese? Repeat layers with the remaining pasta mixture, ricotta cheese mixture and mozzarella cheese. Make sure you get the cheese right to the edges.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. What is the best way to keep an eye on your oven – every oven is different!
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Remove the Beef Lombardi from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy every single bite!
What should I serve it with?
Beef Lombardi is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with dozens of side dishes.What is a good weeknight meal?Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. The freshness of the salad balances the richness and crunch of Lombardi, and the garlic bread is perfect. What are the best ways to soak up all that delicious sauce?For a Special Occasion: Pair it with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. You could also serve it with a Caesar salad or a Caprese salad for a more elegant touch.
For a Cozy Dinner Party: Offer a selection of red wines, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon. A crusty loaf of Italian bread and a platter of cured meats and cheeses would also be a great addition.
And honestly? Sometimes, I just eat it straight from the baking dish with a spoon. No judgement here!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Lombardi
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make the perfect Beef Lombardi every time.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and ruin the texture of the dish.
Don’t Skip the Simmering Time: Simmering the Lombardi sauce for at least 30 minutes is crucial for developing its rich flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and whole milk ricotta cheese, will make a huge difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
Don’t Be Afraid to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the Lombardi sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina. I’ve even added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Let It Rest: Letting the Beef Lombardi rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Beef Lombardi is great for making ahead of time, and it also reheats beautifully.
Storing: Let the Beef Lombardi cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze Beef Lombardi for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat Beef Lombardi, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may not be as good. I usually add a little extra cheese on top before reheating to make it extra gooey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s secret to the best Beef Lombardi recipe ever! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The rich flavor, the cheesy goodness, and the surprising ease of preparation make it a winner every time. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Baked Ziti or my Classic Lasagna. And don’t forget to share your own variations and photos in the comments below! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!
Beef Lombardi Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Beef sirloin steak Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium Onion Chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 28 oz Crushed tomatoes
- 0.25 cup Dry red wine Optional
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp Dried basil
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 8 oz Mozzarella cheese Shredded
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using). Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned beef to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
