Beef Lombardi Casserole is a hearty, creamy pasta bake layered with ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day. With simple ingredients and a cozy, nostalgic flavor, it’s bound to become a regular favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The savory beef-tomato mixture is balanced with creamy ricotta and sour cream, mixed with tender pasta, and topped with a golden layer of melty cheese. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and makes excellent leftovers. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting homemade meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp sugar (optional)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or any pasta
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Beef Mixture:

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce, paste, and diced tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Pasta:

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Casserole:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with sour cream, ricotta, and half the mozzarella.
Add the beef mixture to the pasta and stir until combined.

Bake:

Pour mixture into the prepared dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Serve:

Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
Swap Meat: Use ground turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of beef.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Freeze before baking for best results.
Reheat: Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or fusilli work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, it’s freezer-friendly. Freeze before baking for best texture.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, both are great lean substitutes for beef.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use meatless crumbles or lentils in place of the beef.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Don’t overbake and make sure your mixture has enough sauce and cheese.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

Try cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, though the texture and taste will be slightly different.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I bake it in smaller dishes?

Yes, divide into smaller dishes or ramekins for individual servings.

Conclusion

Beef Lombardi Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory. It’s an easy, family-friendly dish that’s ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. With its hearty ingredients and nostalgic comfort, this casserole is sure to be a hit every time it hits the table.

Beef Lombardi Casserole

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Author: Paula
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy pasta bake layered with savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta and sour cream. This hearty, family-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. Easy to make and freezer-friendly, it’s a nostalgic favorite that delivers big flavor in every bite.

Instructions

Make the Beef Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta:
Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with sour cream, ricotta, and half of the mozzarella.
Add the beef-tomato mixture and stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Best frozen before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients