Johnny Marzetti Casserole – A Hearty Midwest Classic

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Johnny Marzetti Casserole – A Hearty Midwest Classic

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
When comfort calls, Johnny Marzetti answers! This beloved Midwestern casserole is a one-dish wonder—layered with seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later.

Nutrition Facts

Calories498 ; fat 22,5g; Carbohydrates 44,5g; Protein 30,1g. Fiber: 4,1g

Descriptions

Johnny Marzetti Casserole – The Cozy Classic That Feeds a Crowd
This dish layers elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, zesty tomato sauce, and melty cheese into a comforting casserole baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, and freezer meals. With a rich tomato-meat sauce and golden cheesy top, it brings all the flavor without the fuss. Perfectly cozy, totally nostalgic.

Directions

Step 1

Cook the Pasta: Boil 12 oz elbow macaroni or rotini until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, sauté:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 chopped onion
1 chopped green bell pepper
Add both meats to the skillet and sauté until they’re well-browned and cooked through.

Stir in:

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Simmer for 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3

Combine & Layer:
In a greased casserole dish, layer:

Half the pasta
Half the meat sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella
Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan on top.

Step 4

Bake:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Marzetti

✔️ Slightly undercook pasta—it will finish in the oven.
✔️ Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
✔️ Use half ground sausage for more flavor.
✔️ Make it ahead and refrigerate—it reheats beautifully.

Creative Variations

🧀 Extra Cheesy – Add a ricotta layer like lasagna.
🌱 Veggie Lover – Use mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
🐔 Chicken Option – Simply swap out the beef for rotisserie chicken.
🧄 Garlic Bread Crust – Top with croutons brushed in garlic butter.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes! Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60–70 minutes.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the day before and bake when ready to serve.

Q: What’s the origin of the name?
Johnny Marzetti was named after the brother of a Columbus, Ohio restaurant owner in the early 1900s!

Advice for Gifting

Pack it in a foil baking dish with a sweet handwritten label: “Made with love—just bake & enjoy!” Add a small jar of Italian seasoning or a mini loaf of garlic bread to complete the comfort package.

Fun Ways to Serve

🍽️ Family-Style – Right from the casserole dish, just like grandma!
🧺 Picnic Twist – Serve chilled or reheated in individual portions.
🌮 Fusion – Stuff leftovers into a tortilla for a Marzetti taco!
🥗 Balanced Meal – Pair with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

Johnny Marzetti Casserole is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. It’s simple, satisfying, and speaks the universal language of cheese and carbs.

📸 Snap your version and tag #ChefAVAdinner for a chance to be featured!

👉 What’s your go-to comfort casserole? Drop it in the comments!