Discover the Ultimate Comfort Food: Beef Lombardi Recipe
Prepare to elevate your dinner game with our Beef Lombardi recipe! This classic comfort food combines flavorful ground beef, tangy tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and tender egg noodles for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a gathering with friends, Beef Lombardi is the perfect choice for a delicious and comforting meal. Join us as we dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 28 oz can tomatoes
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon Tabasco sauce
- 1 bay leaf
For the Pasta and Cheese Layer:
- 1 package egg noodles, cooked
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Preparing the Beef Mixture:
- Cooking Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Adding Flavor: Stir in the canned tomatoes, minced garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, Tabasco sauce, and bay leaf. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Assembling the Dish:
- Cooking Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Creamy Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped green onions, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
- Layering: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked egg noodles followed by half of the creamy cheese mixture and half of the grated Cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Baking and Serving:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncovering and Finishing: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serving: Allow the Beef Lombardi to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute vegetarian ground beef crumbles or diced mushrooms for the ground beef to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano into the beef mixture for added flavor depth.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content. Use a sugar-free sweetener in place of honey in the beef mixture and opt for full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- Low Carb Variation: Choose a low-carb tomato sauce or diced tomatoes with no added sugar. Use cauliflower rice instead of egg noodles and substitute almond flour for thickening the beef mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different flavor profile.
- How long does Beef Lombardi last in the refrigerator?
- Beef Lombardi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Can I freeze Beef Lombardi for later?
- Yes, Beef Lombardi freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Beef Lombardi and treat yourself to a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty beef mixture, creamy cheese layer, and tender egg noodles, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving more. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or served at a special gathering, Beef Lombardi is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this timeless classic!
Here’s to hearty meals and cherished moments shared around the dinner table!
