Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my all-time favorite comfort food: beef lombardi casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, packed with rich flavors and hearty goodness that’ll make your taste buds sing. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma wafting through the house was simply irresistible! Imagine layers of savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tender elbow macaroni all baked together until bubbly perfection. It’s super easy to whip up, and trust me, you’ll want to dive right in! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy night in, this beef lombardi casserole is the perfect go-to recipe that never disappoints. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (I like to use lean beef for a healthier twist!)
- 1 onion, chopped (This adds such a lovely flavor base—don’t skip it!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Garlic is a must; it really kicks things up a notch!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, the juiciness here is key!)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz, for that rich, saucy goodness)
- 1 cup beef broth (adds depth and moisture—yum!)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (cooked al dente for the perfect texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love a good sharp cheddar, but you can use your favorite!)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for that delightful herby flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust to your liking!)
How to Prepare Beef Lombardi Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, let’s get our beef mixture going! Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add your ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook this beautiful trio, breaking the beef apart, until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent—about 5-7 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly! Once that’s done, drain any excess fat, then stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about 10 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now, while that beef mixture is simmering, it’s time to cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. You want it al dente, so don’t overdo it! Once it’s cooked, drain it and set it aside. In your trusty baking dish, combine the beef mixture and the drained macaroni. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed. You want the macaroni to soak up all that deliciousness! Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top—don’t be shy, this is the best part!
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Alright, now it’s time to bake! Place your assembled dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is all melty and bubbly, creating that irresistible golden crust on top. Just picture that ooey-gooey goodness! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. It’s hard to wait, but it’ll be worth it when you dive into that comforting bowl of beef lombardi casserole!
Tips for Success
To ensure your beef lombardi casserole turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the browning process—letting the beef and onions get nice and golden adds depth to the flavor. Also, make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking the beef; we want the casserole to be rich but not greasy! When cooking the elbow macaroni, be sure to follow the package instructions for al dente; overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the oven. A little sprinkle of extra cheese on top just before baking can give that gorgeous, bubbly finish we all love! And if you’re feeling adventurous, taste the beef mixture before combining it with the macaroni—adjust the seasoning to your preference for a more personalized flavor. Happy cooking!
Variations of Beef Lombardi Casserole
If you’re looking to switch things up with your beef lombardi casserole, there are so many fun ways to customize it! For a lighter twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef—this still gives you that hearty feel but with fewer calories. You can also mix in some sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color. Feeling adventurous? Add a can of black beans for extra protein and fiber! And if you want to spice things up, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can even swap out the elbow macaroni for whole wheat pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. The sky’s the limit, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, the beef lombardi casserole hits the sweet spot without overwhelming your waistline! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions. But no matter the numbers, you can feel good about enjoying this hearty dish!
FAQ Section
Can I make beef lombardi casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is one of those perfect dishes you can prep ahead. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it’ll be going in cold.
Can I freeze beef lombardi casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I serve with beef lombardi casserole?
I love serving this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for dipping. It’s a complete meal on its own, but those sides really elevate the experience!
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even whole grain options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they don’t get too soft.
How do I know when my casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before digging in; it’ll be hot, hot, hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this beef lombardi casserole, and I can’t wait to share them with you! Here’s why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze!
- Hearty and Satisfying: It’s packed with protein and comforting flavors, leaving everyone at the table happy.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs!
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love digging into this cheesy, delicious casserole.
- Leftover Magic: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this beef lombardi casserole steals the show every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your beef lombardi casserole properly is key to enjoying those delicious leftovers! Once it’s completely cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—perfect for meal prep or late-night snacking! Just keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the pasta will absorb the sauce, so it might be a tad drier upon reheating.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you love that bubbly cheese effect, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating. And voilà! You’ve got a comforting meal that tastes just as good as the first time around!
Print
Beef Lombardi Casserole: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty beef lombardi casserole with layers of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain.
- Combine beef mixture and macaroni in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: beef lombardi casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food
