Beef Lombardi Casserole

In the world of culinary delights, few dishes can evoke the same warmth and nostalgia as a hearty casserole. One such dish that has earned its place in the hearts of families across generations is the Beef Lombardi Casserole. This delightful recipe brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta, all baked to perfection in a single pan. It's the kind of meal that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, making it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike.

Discover the comfort of Beef Lombardi Casserole, the ultimate family favorite that brings warmth to your kitchen. This delicious dish combines ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender macaroni, all baked to perfection. Explore its Italian-American roots and learn how to create this mouthwatering meal with our easy step-by-step guide. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Satisfy your cravings and share it with loved ones!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup beef broth

2 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp sugar

Salt and pepper, to taste

8 oz (225g) uncooked macaroni pasta

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined then bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cooked macaroni, and ricotta cheese. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the beef and pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining beef mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (avoid touching the cheese) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings