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Cozy Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe

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A warm, comforting classic perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings. This creamy, cheesy beef and noodle casserole is layered with rich tomato sauce and melty cheddar cheese, making it a go-to crowd-pleaser for potlucks or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 pounds ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)

  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained slightly

  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 8 ounces egg noodles (wide or medium)

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1 cup small curd cottage cheese

  • ¼ cup chopped green onions (or chives)

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  • Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  • Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes.

  • In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cottage cheese, and green onions. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

  • To assemble: spread half the noodles in the baking dish, followed by half the sour cream mixture, and then half the meat sauce. Repeat layers.

  • Top with shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.

  • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

  • Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for beef.

  • Greek yogurt can replace sour cream if preferred.

  • For a veggie boost, mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the beef sauce.

  • To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • For best results, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/cozy-beef-lombardi-casserole-recipe/