johnny marzetti casserole recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
johnny marzetti casserole recipe
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The Best johnny marzetti casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite Johnny Marzetti casserole recipe with you. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a delicious side dish for your next family gathering, this casserole is sure to please. The story behind Johnny Marzetti casserole is a fascinating one – it originated in the Midwest, where Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them.

The dish is named after John Marzetti, an Italian immigrant who owned a restaurant in Ohio and created this hearty casserole as a way to feed his customers after hours. Over time, the recipe has evolved and spread throughout the country, but its core remains the same – ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce baked in a golden brown crust.

I’ve tweaked the original recipe to make it healthier and more flavorful, without sacrificing any of its comforting charm. In fact, my kids love helping me prepare this casserole because they know how much they’ll enjoy eating it afterwards – it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

As for me, I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is – we can have it as a main course or as a side dish. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so we can enjoy leftovers for days to come.

Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Johnny Marzetti Casserole

4.8 from 911 votes

A classic Midwestern comfort casserole with ground beef, egg noodles, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of savory flavors and creamy textures.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
8 ounces egg noodles
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes.
4Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.
5In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
6Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
8Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
9Combine the cooked noodles with the meat sauce in the skillet and mix well.
10Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
11Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
12Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
13Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
14This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large pot
Colander
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese. You can also add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Johnny Marzetti Casserole Works

Johnny Marzetti casserole is a reliable dish that works for any occasion, whether it is a weeknight dinner or a holiday potluck. I love that it is easy to store in the fridge for up to four days, and it reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

For serving, I like to sprinkle fresh parsley on top and pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. This recipe always brings people together, and it is one of those meals that makes everyone feel full and happy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Q1: What is the history behind Johnny Marzetti casserole?

The story behind Johnny Marzetti casserole is rooted in Italian-American cuisine. It originated in the Midwest, where Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them.

Q2: What are the key ingredients in Johnny Marzetti casserole?

The key ingredients are ground beef, pasta (such as macaroni or ziti), tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese.

Q3: How do I make Johnny Marzetti casserole healthier?

I use leaner ground beef and add plenty of vegetables (like onions and bell peppers) to increase the nutrient content.

Q4: Can I substitute different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes or sizes – just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Q5: How do I store leftover Johnny Marzetti casserole?

You can refrigerate or freeze leftover casserole for up to 3 days; reheat until hot throughout before serving.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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