Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe: A Comforting, Easy-to-Make Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weekend, look no further than this Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole recipe. It’s a comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef, rich pasta, melted cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce—ideal for satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easy to make, affordable, and perfect for meal prep!

This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a few, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Let’s dive right into how you can prepare this comforting casserole!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (16 oz) package elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will give it time to heat up while you’re preparing the casserole.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Stir and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.

Recipe Notes:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Try adding provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: If you want to add some veggies, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be tossed in with the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Ground Beef Alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken can also be used as a leaner option.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Time and Serving:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

How to Store:

• In the Fridge: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: This casserole freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through. Pair this cheesy casserole with a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean Chicken bowl for a balanced meal.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, opt for freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese. It melts much better!
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure you cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. It will cook further in the oven, and you don’t want it to get too soft.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For a little texture contrast, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs before baking.

How to Serve:

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra sauce from the casserole.
• Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti pairs beautifully with the beefy flavors of this dish.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large skillet for browning meat
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Aluminum foil for covering the casserole

Health Benefits of Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole:

• Protein-Rich: With a hearty amount of ground beef, this casserole is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Tomatoes: The marinara sauce provides antioxidants like lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.
• Calcium: The cheese offers a good source of calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
• Balanced Meal: The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese makes this a well-rounded dish, giving you a good mix of carbs, proteins, and fats to keep you satisfied.

FAQs:

Final Thoughts:

The Hearty Beef Lombardi Casserole is a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing leftovers for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—just the way comfort food should be. Enjoy!