1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: Creating a Flavorful Sauce

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
2. Drain Fat: Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the undrained diced tomatoes, undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
4. Simmer: Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

2. Cook the Egg Noodles: Preparing the Creamy Base

1. Boil Water: While the beef mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, until they are al dente (cooked through but still slightly firm to the bite).
3. Drain and Add Sour Cream: Drain the cooked noodles in a colander. Return them to the pot or a large bowl and stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until they are evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Casserole: Layering for Maximum Flavor

1. Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Layer Noodles: Spread the creamy egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Add Beef Sauce: Pour the simmered beef and tomato mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
4. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the beef mixture.

4. Bake to Perfection: Creating a Bubbly, Cheesy Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
   • Tip: If you want a browner, crispier cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

5. Cool and Serve: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

1. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the Beef Lombardi Casserole hot and enjoy!