If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dinner that really hits the spot, then you absolutely need to try this Beef Lombardi Recipe. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining savory ground beef, creamy layers of cheese, and a tangy tomato sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your regular dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers deliciousness with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Beef Lombardi Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that come together seamlessly. Each component plays a vital role, from the well-seasoned ground beef providing depth, to the trio of cheeses adding luscious creaminess, and the rice bringing that perfect base to soak up all the wonderful flavors.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein that delivers a juicy, savory foundation.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a gentle bite to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant warmth that complements the beef.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A harmonious blend of herbs for a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Brings acidity and moisture to balance the richness.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, saucy layer throughout the bake.
- 1 cup cooked long grain white rice: Provides a soft, hearty base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to keep the dish lively.
- ½ cup cottage cheese: Boosts the cheese factor with a lighter texture and subtle flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, savory notes that melt perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey, stretchy goodness that everyone loves.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Fresh and bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing: Keeps the casserole from sticking and helps develop a golden crust.
How to Make Beef Lombardi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with either cooking spray or butter. This will make sure your Beef Lombardi Recipe bakes up nicely without sticking and develops a pretty golden edge.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned, making sure to break up any clumps as it cooks. This step creates the savory base for the whole dish and builds flavor from the start.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to your browned beef, sautéing for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. This melds perfectly with the beef to create a rich, layered flavor.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Next, stir in salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly to distribute those flavorful herbs and spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato sauce, then let everything simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to marry.
Step 5: Mix the Creamy Rice Layer
While the beef mixture simmers, combine cooked rice, sour cream, and cottage cheese in a separate bowl. This creamy mixture will provide a smooth and comforting base layer for your casserole, balancing the tangy beef sauce perfectly.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Carefully layer the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the top. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly across the surface, promising a gooey, melty finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly golden. This baking stage pulls all the flavors and textures together wonderfully.
How to Serve Beef Lombardi Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly sliced green onions scattered over the hot casserole add a delightful pop of color and a mild oniony crunch, brightening up each bite visually and in flavor.
Side Dishes
This Beef Lombardi Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens. The contrast of fresh crispness balances the rich, cheesy casserole for a well-rounded meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini baking dishes. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant finish that impresses both family and guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Beef Lombardi Recipe can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners during busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish in advance, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for convenience, but the oven helps restore that fresh-baked texture that makes the Beef Lombardi Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well if you want extra fiber and a nuttier flavor; just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in since it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing after baking?
It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking to maintain texture and flavor. If freezing after baking, it might become a bit watery, so reheating gently is key.
Can I add some spice to the Beef Lombardi Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add red pepper flakes or diced green chiles to the beef mixture during cooking to give the dish a nice spicy kick that complements the creamy elements beautifully.
What can I do if I don’t have cottage cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese or more sour cream if you prefer. Both options will maintain the creamy texture, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The familiar flavors and cheesy goodness make this Beef Lombardi Recipe a hit with kids and adults alike. Just adjust seasoning if your little ones prefer milder dishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like home, and this Beef Lombardi Recipe does exactly that. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying casserole that brings warmth and joy to your table, perfect for any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see just how quickly it becomes a favorite in your house, too!
Print
Beef Lombardi Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef Lombardi is a comforting American casserole featuring a savory ground beef and tomato sauce mixture layered over creamy rice and cheeses, baked to perfection for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
Dairy and Grains
- 1 cup cooked long grain white rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Others
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and grease dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add seasoning and sauces: Stir in salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Mix rice and cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked long grain white rice with sour cream and cottage cheese until thoroughly mixed and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the rice and cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a base layer. Then spoon the beef and tomato sauce mixture evenly over the rice layer.
- Add cheese toppings and bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the beef layer. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese melts, turns bubbly, and lightly browns on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish it with the sliced green onions, and serve warm for a delicious family meal.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making it convenient for busy days.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced green chiles to the beef mixture during cooking.
