Description
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, comforting baked pasta dish layered with a savory ground beef tomato sauce, creamy sour cream, and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner, bringing together robust flavors and a satisfying cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb ground beef (estimated, typical for beef mixture)
Casserole Layers
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease for a leaner dish.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
- Layer the Casserole: Evenly spread the cooked elbow macaroni in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the macaroni, spreading it out to cover.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese Layer: Combine the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the beef layer, adding a smooth, tangy component.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the sour cream layer, then add the shredded mozzarella cheese on top to create a perfect melty topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh burst of flavor, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- For a spicier flavor, increase the chili powder according to taste.
- Cook the elbow macaroni al dente to prevent it from over-softening during baking.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Cover with foil if cheese begins to brown too quickly to avoid burning.
