Description
This Beef Lombardi Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – cheesy, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. A rich combination of ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With optional veggie add-ins, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients while enjoying this hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz egg noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Add-Ins:
1 cup frozen peas or broccoli (for added veggies)
½ cup diced bell peppers (for extra flavor)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2️⃣ Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. If you’re using optional add-ins like peas, broccoli, or bell peppers, fold them into the mixture at this stage.
4️⃣ Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5️⃣ Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
This casserole is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even ground chicken for a leaner option. The optional add-ins like peas or broccoli add nutrition and color, but feel free to get creative with your own favorite veggies. For a spicier twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce on the side. This dish pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.