Beef Lombardi is a comforting and hearty American casserole that brings together tender noodles, savory beef, and a creamy sauce with a kick of heat from Southwest-style tomatoes.
This dish is perfect for those nights when you crave something warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
The name “Beef Lombardi” may have a curious origin linked to Lombardi’s, one of the first pizzerias in the United States, located in New York City. While this dish isn’t on their menu, the connection to Italian-American cuisine is undeniable.
Regardless of where the name comes from, this dish has earned its place as a beloved classic, thanks to its rich flavors and comforting qualities.
Beef Lombardi
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 4 tablespoons (3 oz) tomato paste
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes & chilies (like Ro-tel), drained
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 (12 oz) package egg noodles
- 1 1/4 cups sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch deep-sided baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the beef and onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until the meat is browned and the onions are softened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the tomato paste and seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained diced tomatoes with chilies. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the liquid begins to evaporate and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Cook the noodles: While the beef mixture is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles for just 3 minutes—this keeps them from becoming too soft when baked. Reserve 2 cups of the cooking water before draining the noodles. Set the noodles aside.
- Prepare the creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of the reserved noodle water until smooth. Stir in the cooked noodles and the remaining reserved noodle water. Mix until the noodles are well coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired. Then, top with the beef mixture, leveling it with the back of a spoon to ensure all the noodles are covered. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown around the edges.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
