Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Beef Lombardi Casserole. If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place. This casserole is the perfect combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why this Beef Lombardi Casserole recipe is a standout. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. With its rich and savory flavors, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul. Additionally, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed time and time again.
Ingredients
To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Feel free to add any additional seasonings or vegetables to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Beef Lombardi Casserole:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta.
- Pour half of the beef mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this delicious Beef Lombardi Casserole with your favorite side salad or garlic bread.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your Beef Lombardi Casserole turns out perfectly:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- For a cheesy crust, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- Instead of ground beef, use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Swap the penne pasta for your favorite pasta shape, such as rigatoni or macaroni.
- Add a layer of sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you’re vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or crusty garlic bread to complement the flavors. A crisp Caesar salad or a fresh Caprese salad would be perfect accompaniments. For a refreshing beverage, try serving it with a glass of chilled white wine or a fruity iced tea.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just portion it into individual freezer-safe containers and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Beef Lombardi Casserole is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. With its layers of flavorful beef, pasta, and cheese, it’s a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the warm and hearty flavors of this timeless casserole.
We hope you enjoy making and eating this Beef Lombardi Casserole as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with us. Happy cooking!
Beef Lombardi Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole with layers of tender beef, pasta, and cheesy goodness, perfect for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta.
- Pour half of the beef mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
