Beef Lombardi Bake

This beefy comfort meal combines savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, tender noodles, and melty cheese into one unbelievable dinner option. The deep flavors and easy prep make this hearty casserole perfect for busy nights when you want something filling that'll please everyone at your table. It's become a family favorite because it's so simple to throw together but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, to brown your meat mix
• Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb, the meaty foundation
• Onion: ½, diced, adds sweetness
• Salt: 1 tsp, brings out flavors
• Black Pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
• Tomato Paste: 4 tbsp, for rich tomato punch
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for flavor boost
• Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp, herby goodness
• Diced Tomatoes with Chilies: 3 cans (10 oz each), drained, adds zip
• Celery Salt: ¼ tsp, subtle veggie note
• Egg Noodles: 1 package (12 oz), cooked and drained
• Sour Cream: 1¼ cups, makes it velvety
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened, adds richness
• Cornstarch: 1 tbsp, thickens everything up
• Colby Jack Cheese: 2½ cups, shredded, melty topping

HOW TO MAKE IT

Step 1:

Turn your oven on to 350°F.

Step 2:

Warm olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in chopped onion and ground beef, cooking until meat isn't pink and onions look clear. Add salt and pepper.

Step 3:

Mix in tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, celery salt, and drained tomatoes with chilies. Let it cook 5 more minutes so flavors blend together.

Step 4:

Cook egg noodles for just 3 minutes. Save 2 cups of the cooking water before draining.

Step 5:

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, softened cream cheese, cornstarch, and ½ cup of the saved noodle water until it's smooth.

Step 6:

Combine noodles with the remaining saved water, then spread them in a greased 9x13-inch dish. Layer the beef mix on top.

Step 7:

Cover everything with shredded Colby Jack cheese.

Step 8:

Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese bubbles and turns golden.

Keeping It Fresh

• Wait 5-10 minutes before digging in so it can firm up a bit.
• Keep any leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
• Warm it back up in your microwave or oven until it's hot throughout.

Smart Tweaks

• Want more heat? Throw in some red pepper flakes or go for spicier canned tomatoes.
• Need it gluten-free? Just swap in GF noodles and double-check your cornstarch.

Pro Kitchen Secrets

• Chef Trick: Pour in a bit of red wine with your beef for deeper flavor.

Making It Extra Special Try adding smoky paprika to your meat mixture or throw in some sliced black olives for a tasty twist. Feed a Crowd You can easily double or triple this dish for big family get-togethers or potluck parties. FAQs

Can I make this the night before?

Sure! Put it all together, cover it, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don't have Colby Jack?

No problem. Try cheddar, mozzarella, or mix different cheeses for the top.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw before you heat it up again.

Will my kids eat this?

Most likely! The cheese and mild taste tend to win over even picky eaters.

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Conclusion

This Lombardi beef bake is pure comfort on a plate, layering zesty beef topped with soft noodles and a rich cheese sauce. Ground beef cooks with onions and tomatoes, seasoned just right, while the noodles mix with sour cream and cream cheese for an extra creamy bite. Finally, shredded Colby Jack covers it all before baking to a gooey, golden finish. It's perfect for dinner with family, potlucks, or anytime you need a simple, satisfying meal.