Beef Lombardi

snackonmeat

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Beef Lombardi is a cozy, satisfying casserole that combines tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy, zesty sauce with a Southwestern flair. This hearty dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With melty Colby Jack cheese and a hint of heat from tomatoes and chilies, it’s a perfect comfort meal for any occasion.

While the name “Beef Lombardi” may bring to mind New York’s famed Lombardi’s pizzeria, this dish holds its own as a beloved classic, rich in flavor and comfort.

Beef Lombardi Recipe

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

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for 8-10 minutes until the beef is browned and onions are softened. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained tomatoes with chilies. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
  4. Cook Noodles: Boil egg noodles for 3 minutes, then drain, reserving 2 cups of cooking water.
  5. Prepare Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup reserved noodle water. Stir in noodles and remaining water until evenly coated.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Spread the noodle mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with the beef mixture and sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top.
  7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy this rich, cheesy, and flavorful casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!