I loved this dish so much! I'd always pester my mom to whip it up.

Beef Lombardi is one of those delightful comfort foods that warms you from the inside out. It's named after Coach Vince Lombardi, embodying the hearty, satisfying feel of a post-game meal. This dish has become a family favorite around the Midwest, perfect for gatherings and cozy dinners at home. The gooey, cheesy texture makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. It's the kind of recipe that's not just about eating, but about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and making memories.

Beef Lombardi goes beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, to balance out the richness of the dish. Some crusty garlic bread on the side would be just perfect for soaking up any of the delicious sauce that might be left on your plate. A side of steamed green beans or roasted vegetables can also add a lovely touch of color and nutrition to the meal.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 oz) mild diced tomatoes and green chilies
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups cooked egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles and sour cream, mixing well.

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half the noodle mixture, half the beef mixture, half the cheddar cheese, and half the mozzarella cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cheeses.

Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

For picky eaters, you can mix the veggies into the beef mixture, so they meld with the flavors and are less noticeable. If you're looking for a bit more spice, add a teaspoon of chili powder or replace the mild diced tomatoes and green chilies with a hot version. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. This dish works well as a make-ahead meal; simply assemble it a day in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.