Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: beef lombardi casserole! This dish is the epitome of hearty and satisfying—perfect for cozy nights with family or when I simply need a pick-me-up. I remember the first time I made it for a gathering; the aroma wafted through the house, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! It’s so easy to prepare, and the combination of ground beef, pasta, and that gooey melted cheese is just divine. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and it’s quickly become a staple at our family dinners. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Beef Lombardi Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups cooked pasta (any shape you love)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I like a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Beef Lombardi Casserole
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s a breeze. Just follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a bubbling dish ready to serve.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important for ensuring even cooking, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, add your ground beef and cook it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until the beef is nicely browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the garlic; no one wants that bitter taste in our delicious casserole!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once your beef mixture is ready, drain any excess fat and return it to the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure to mix everything well so those flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Now, transfer your beef mixture to a baking dish and top it off with that gooey shredded cheese. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Yum!
Tips for Success with Beef Lombardi Casserole
To make your beef lombardi casserole even more delicious, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t hesitate to throw in some veggies. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can add great flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for a few minutes before adding the beef.
If you’re looking to switch things up, try using different types of cheese. A pepper jack can give it a nice kick, or you could use a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. And remember, the pasta you choose matters! I love a good penne or rotini, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
Lastly, if you have leftovers, consider adding a little extra tomato sauce before reheating to keep it moist and tasty. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The numbers provided here are just estimates to give you a general idea of what to expect. Always check your labels and adjust as needed for your dietary preferences!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Lombardi Casserole
- Quick prep time—ready in just 45 minutes!
- Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs.
- Delicious blend of flavors with ground beef, pasta, and cheese.
- Feeds a crowd—ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
- Versatile recipe that allows for endless ingredient swaps!
FAQ about Beef Lombardi Casserole
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll still get a delicious casserole.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own mix with dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of thyme. It’ll still bring that fabulous flavor to your dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your delicious beef lombardi casserole, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover it to prevent splattering! Trust me, it’s just as comforting the second time around!
Serving Suggestions for Beef Lombardi Casserole
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are perfect for scooping up all that delicious sauce.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a colorful and nutritious side.
- A side of roasted vegetables brings extra flavor and texture.
- Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a finishing touch!
Beef Lombardi Casserole: 5 Comforting Ways to Savor It
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A hearty beef lombardi casserole that’s easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingrédients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Mix in the cooked pasta.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Casserole
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: beef lombardi casserole
