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Beef Lombardi Casserole

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Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that combines ground beef, tangy tomatoes, creamy noodles, and a trio of melted cheeses. This baked casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

1/2 onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

3 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

1/4 teaspoon celery salt

1 (12-ounce) package egg noodles

1 1/4 cups sour cream

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 1/2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onion and ground beef, cooking until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  4. While the beef mixture simmers, cook egg noodles in boiling water for 3 minutes (they will finish cooking in the oven). Reserve 2 cups of the noodle cooking water before draining.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of the reserved noodle water until smooth.
  6. Add the partially cooked noodles and remaining reserved noodle water to the creamy mixture, stirring to combine.
  7. Transfer the noodle mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Evenly spread the beef mixture over the noodles.
  8. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the casserole.
  9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown slightly.
  10. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend instead of Colby Jack.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier kick, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or add crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C).

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