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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a hearty casserole. Among the many delightful options, the Savory Beef Lombardi Casserole stands out as a true crowd-pleaser. This delectable dish is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, festive gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. As you dive into this recipe, you will discover a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, ranging from the savory depth of ground beef to the creamy goodness of cottage cheese and the melty perfection of mozzarella.

Beef Lombardi Casserole

Discover the Savory Beef Lombardi Casserole, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make casserole features a delightful blend of ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella, creating a rich flavor experience. Ideal for family dinners and gatherings, it offers versatility with ingredient substitutions for various dietary needs. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, it's a satisfying meal everyone will cherish. Enjoy the warmth and togetherness this dish brings to your table!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups cooked penne pasta

1 cup cottage cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

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

      Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

        Mix in the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.

          Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the beef mixture and stir until well mixed.

            Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the beef and pasta mixture, then spread the cottage cheese evenly on top. Next, sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Layer the remaining beef and pasta mixture on top.

              Add Final Touches: Finish by topping the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

                Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil 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 brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings