Beef Lombardi Casserole

Beef Lombardi Bake

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

1/2 onion, finely diced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian herbs

3 cans (10 ounces each) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

1/4 teaspoon celery salt

1 package (12 ounces) egg noodles

1 1/4 cups sour cream

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

Preheat and Heat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat.

Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper.

Build Flavor: Mix in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian herbs, celery salt, and the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the egg noodles for 3 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of the cooking water, then drain the noodles.

Create the Cream Mixture: In a bowl, blend together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of the reserved noodle water. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Combine Everything: Return the partially cooked noodles and the remaining reserved water to the pot. Mix well and transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Layer the Casserole: Evenly distribute the beef mixture over the noodles, smoothing it out with a spoon.

Bake: Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Enjoy your hearty Beef Lombardi Bake!

Notes:

Ground Beef Alternatives: You can substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or lentils.

Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions.

Cheese Variations: While Colby Jack cheese works beautifully, you can also use cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for a different flavor profile.

Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or using spicy diced tomatoes with chilies.

Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

Freezing: Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

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Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, before serving for added freshness.

Cooking Time Variations: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overcooking the cheese.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance.

Just assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of egg noodles?

If you prefer, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta types like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Answer: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients (like the tomato paste and any seasoning) are gluten-free.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add some heat, consider using spicy diced tomatoes or adding chopped jalapeños.

You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture or top the casserole with hot sauce before serving.

How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?

The ground beef is fully cooked when it is no longer pink and has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Make sure to break it apart while cooking to ensure even browning.

What should I do if my casserole seems too dry?

If the casserole appears dry, you can add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water before baking.

This will help keep it moist during cooking.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a lighter alternative to cream cheese.

Just make sure the consistency is smooth when mixed.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

You can cover it with foil to prevent the top from browning too much.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Sauté them along with the onions for the best results.