Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines rich, savory flavors with satisfying textures in every bite. This casserole is an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a filling and delicious meal. Layers of seasoned ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce create a perfect balance of flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for the week ahead, this casserole comes together easily and can be customized to suit your preferences. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and cheese makes it both filling and indulgent, while the dish’s versatility allows for plenty of variations.

In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step recipe for making Beef Lombardi Casserole, tips for perfecting it, and ideas for customizing the dish to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Beef Lombardi Casserole

• Rich, Flavorful Beef: The ground beef provides a savory base for the casserole, with its robust seasoning blending perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Comforting Layers: The pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese create a satisfying and filling meal that will keep you full for hours.
• Perfectly Balanced Texture: The pasta gives the dish a tender texture, while the beef offers a rich, meaty bite. The melty cheese and gooey sauce tie everything together beautifully.
• Simple Ingredients: You can make this dish with basic pantry staples, making it an easy and affordable option for any night of the week.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a casual get-together, Beef Lombardi Casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-22g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 25-27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Beef Lombardi Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne, rotini, or ziti)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Beef Lombardi Casserole doesn’t require any special tools, having a few key pieces of equipment will help ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

1. Large Skillet: You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan to cook the ground beef and combine the tomato sauce ingredients. A deep skillet allows you to mix everything efficiently and prevents splattering.
2. Large Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, allowing for all the ingredients to be layered properly and baked evenly. You can also use a smaller dish if you prefer to make a smaller batch.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is great for stirring the beef and sauce, ensuring it doesn’t stick or burn while cooking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for getting the seasoning right, so make sure you have standard measuring cups and spoons on hand.
5. Strainer or Colander: After boiling the pasta, a colander will help you drain it quickly and efficiently, ensuring no excess water gets into the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook the beef for 6-8 minutes, or until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.

2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Once the beef is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, making sure it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef and tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of the casserole dish. Then, add a layer of the cooked pasta, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese and ricotta cheese (if using). Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

5. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The top should be golden and slightly crispy.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into portions. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Beef Lombardi Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole. Overcooking the pasta will result in mushy texture once it’s baked.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment with your sauce. Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor, or include some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
• Use Fresh Cheese: If possible, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re making it ahead, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s thoroughly heated.

Variations of Beef Lombardi Casserole

• Beef and Sausage Lombardi Casserole: Add Italian sausage to the ground beef for extra flavor. Use about 1/2 lb of sausage along with the ground beef for a mix of savory meats.
• Vegetarian Lombardi Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a mix of vegetables, such as mushrooms and zucchini. You can also use plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Beef Lombardi Casserole: For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Beef Lombardi with Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the ground beef mixture for added smokiness and crunch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Lombardi Casserole is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from the refrigerator, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Lombardi Casserole

Pair this casserole with complementary dishes to round out your meal:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole and adds a light, refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add both nutrition and flavor to the meal.
• Steamed Asparagus: A simple side of steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness to the meal.

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Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting and filling dish that brings together savory ground beef, pasta, and cheese in a mouthwatering combination. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a cozy meal at home, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of Beef Lombardi Casserole—you’ll find it’s a dish that’s destined to become a family favorite!