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Beef Lombardi Casserole: A South-of-the-Border Comfort Classic

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Layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy noodles, and melted cheeses create a comforting casserole with a south-of-the-border flair.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel)
  • 1 6 oz can tomato paste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 12 oz package egg noodles
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Prepare the Baking Dish and Preheat Oven:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly, preventing any undercooked or burnt areas.
    • Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easier, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free cooking experience.

  • Cook the Ground Beef:

    • In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly. This ensures the beef is cooked through and adds flavor, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
    • Drain excess fat. This prevents the casserole from being greasy, ensuring a lighter and more enjoyable dish.

  • Make the Sauce:

    • Add the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. This combines all the sauce ingredients, creating a rich and flavorful mixture.
    • Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, creating a robust and well-balanced sauce.

  • Cook the Egg Noodles:

    • Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite, preventing them from becoming mushy.
    • Drain and toss with the sour cream until fully coated. This adds creaminess and prevents the noodles from sticking together, creating a smooth and creamy layer.

  • Assemble the Casserole:

    • Spread the creamy noodles in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. This forms the base of the casserole, creating a solid foundation for the other ingredients.
    • Top with the beef and tomato sauce. This adds the savory layer, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dish.
    • Sprinkle the shredded cheeses evenly over the top. This creates a cheesy, melty topping, enhancing the texture and flavor of the casserole.

  • Bake the Casserole:

    • Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top. This ensures the casserole is cooked through and the cheese is perfectly melted, creating a golden-brown crust.

  • Let Stand and Serve:

    • Let stand 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and cool slightly, preventing it from being too runny.
    • Enjoy!

Notes

  • Drain ground beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Cook noodles al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Adjust spices to taste.
  • Let casserole rest for easier serving.

Find it online: https://paularecipes.com/beef-lombardi-casserole-a-south-of-the-border-comfort-classic/