This Beef Lombardi Casserole, however, is the kind of rich yet comforting dish best suited to family dinners or casual get-togethers. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a creamy sour cream layer, it’s then topped with a rich meat sauce and a mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. The result? A bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s exploding with flavor in every single bite! Pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete dish sure to please a crowd.

I love to make this casserole because it’s so simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The layers of pasta, sour cream, and cheesy meat sauce make it hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish—just stick it in the oven when you’re ready to eat! Are you ready to make a tasty dinner that’s sure to be a family favorite? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick to Make: It’s a matter of browning the beef and boiling the pasta, and the casserole is as good as done.
So Many Layers of Flavor: From the seasoned beef sauce to the rich, ooey-gooey layer of sour cream pasta, each bite is loaded with flavor.
Kid-Friendly: The comforting cheesy goodness in this casserole will appeal to kids and adults alike.
Make Ahead / Freezer Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when you’re ready, or freeze until you need it!

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Key Ingredients

For the Beef Sauce:

Ground Beef: This hearty base makes for a wonderfully rich, savory casserole.
Canned Diced Tomatoes and Rotel: This will help create a juicy, tangy quality and adds a little spice from the green chilies.
Tomato Paste: Contributes richness, umami, and depth to the sauce.
Spices and Seasonings: Salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. These all add flavor to the beef sauce.

For the Pasta Layer:

Medium Egg Noodles: The best pasta for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Sour Cream: Slathered on top, it provides a creamy, tangy layer that balances the savory beef.

For the Cheesy Topping:

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Offers great meltability and a sharp, tangy flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty, salty bite in the cheesy topping.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This makes for a stretchy, gooey topping that brings it all together.

Full list of ingredients with measurements and step-by-step instructions can be found in the recipe card below.

How to Prepare Beef Lombardi Casserole

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the medium egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with 1 cup sour cream. Toss until the noodles are well coated. Set aside while making the meat sauce.

Pro Tip: Be sure the noodles are still warm when you stir in the sour cream. This helps the sour cream better cling to the noodles and minimizes the likelihood that they’ll stick together.

Make the Beef Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Add 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, 1 can (10 oz) of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste to the skillet. Mix everything together until well combined.
Let simmer for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
(Optional) Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some heat!

Layer the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Evenly spread the sour cream-coated noodles on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the creamy base layer of the casserole.
Pour the meat sauce over the noodles and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Add the Cheesy Topping

In a bowl, mix together 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Evenly sprinkle the cheese mixture across the top of the meat sauce.

Pro Tip: For extra cheesiness, add more mozzarella or even some shredded Monterey Jack to the top.

Bake and Serve

Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly, melted, and starting to brown on top.
Remove from the oven and let rest for around 5 minutes before serving. (This helps the casserole firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.)
Serve the casserole hot with garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to hit the spot!

Tips for Success

Drain the Beef Well: Be sure to drain all the excess grease from the ground beef so that the casserole does not become greasy.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese.
Check Seasonings: Taste the sauce before assembling the casserole and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like it spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes or more Rotel.

Serving Suggestions

While this Beef Lombardi Casserole is hearty and filling on its own, here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside:

Garlic Bread: Pair with some warm garlic bread or breadsticks to mop up that delicious sauce.
Green Salad: Serve with a green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Serve roasted or steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans on the side for added color and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Either reheat portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Variations and Modifications

Add Vegetables: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Switch Up the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Make It Spicier: Use hot Rotel or throw in some chopped jalapeños for extra spice.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta in place of the egg noodles.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Lombardi Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. With layers of tender pasta, savory beef sauce, and a gooey cheese topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides for hearty, satisfying comfort food that will always bring everyone back to the table!

Savor every cheesy, delicious bite!