Ingredients:
- 1 pound premium ground beef
- 1 can rich tomatoes (28 oz)
- 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp organic honey
- ½ tsp spicy Tabasco sauce
- 1 bay leaf for aroma
- 1 pack perfectly cooked egg noodles
- 1 pack soft cream cheese (8 oz)
- 6 fresh green onions, finely chopped
- 1 cup smooth sour cream
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the perfect baking environment. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the premium ground beef, ensuring to drain any excess fat for a leaner dish. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, releasing its aromatic flavors. Incorporate the rich tomatoes, organic honey, spicy Tabasco sauce, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
While the beef simmers, prepare the noodle layer by mixing the cooked egg noodles, soft cream cheese, finely chopped green onions, and smooth sour cream in a large bowl. This creamy mixture will complement the savory beef perfectly.
Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish lightly. Begin layering with half of the noodle mixture, followed by the tomato-beef concoction, and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, ensuring the top layer is a thick blanket of cheddar for a golden, bubbly finish.
Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted to perfection. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Serve this comforting Beef Lombardi casserole hot, and watch it disappear as quickly as it did at Grandma’s table. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich flavors and the warmth of homemade goodness! 🍲✨