Beef Lombardi Casserole
A comforting and creamy casserole layered with pasta, beef, and cheese that will delight your family and friends.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef Sizzling and savory
- 1 onion, chopped Unleashing a sweet, aromatic fragrance
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped Adding a fresh and vibrant crunch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Providing an inviting, robust flavor
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhancing and balancing the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Giving a mild kick
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Infusing a blend of herbs and warmth
Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce Rich and tangy
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes Bursting with juicy sweetness
Pasta and Dairy
- 8 ounces spiral pasta, cooked and drained Offering delightful twists
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Bringing rich creaminess
- 1 cup sour cream Adding a smooth tang
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Ensuring gooey melty goodness
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Providing a salty touch of flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables soften.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Mixing
- In a separate bowl, combine the cooked spiral pasta, softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
Layering and Baking
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with half of the beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and beef mixtures.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For variations, substitute ground beef for turkey or chicken, use whole wheat pasta, or include seasonal vegetables. Letting the casserole rest after baking is crucial for an easier serving.