Johnny Marzetti Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Classic Recipe
Johnny Marzetti is a comforting and satisfying casserole that’s been a family favorite for generations. This classic dish, featuring ground beef, noodles, tomato sauce, and cheese, is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck. While its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the general consensus points to Columbus, Ohio, in the early 20th century. It’s believed that the dish was created by an Italian immigrant, potentially named Johnny Marzetti (though this is debated), who owned a restaurant and popularized the now-beloved casserole.
If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both flavorful and budget-friendly, look no further than Johnny Marzetti. This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and memorable experience.
What is Johnny Marzetti?
At its core, Johnny Marzetti is a baked pasta dish that combines ground beef, egg noodles, tomato-based sauce, and cheese. It’s often compared to American goulash, but Johnny Marzetti typically features a richer, more pronounced tomato flavor and a generous topping of melted cheese. The sauce is typically a simple blend of tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seasonings, but many variations exist, incorporating ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for added depth of flavor. The choice of cheese also varies, with cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both being popular options.
The beauty of Johnny Marzetti lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a forgiving recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. You can use different types of ground meat, experiment with various vegetables, and adjust the level of spiciness to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Johnny Marzetti Recipe
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and readily available ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Ground beef and pasta are economical staples, making Johnny Marzetti a cost-effective meal for the whole family.
* **Comfort Food Classic:** The combination of savory ground beef, tender noodles, and cheesy topping is undeniably comforting and satisfying.
* **Versatile:** This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Johnny Marzetti tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound egg noodles
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a blend)
* Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, red pepper flakes
Equipment You’ll Need
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Large pot
* 9×13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make a delicious Johnny Marzetti casserole:
**Step 1: Cook the Noodles**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Overcooking the noodles will result in a mushy casserole.
* Drain the noodles well and set aside.
**Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef**
* While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
* Drain off any excess grease.
**Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
* Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet with the ground beef.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
**Step 4: Make the Sauce**
* Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
**Step 5: Combine and Assemble**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, ground beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheese (1 cup).
* Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
**Step 6: Bake the Casserole**
* Pour the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese (1 cup) evenly over the top.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
**Step 7: Let Rest and Serve**
* Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
* Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
Tips for the Best Johnny Marzetti
* **Don’t Overcook the Noodles:** Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente to prevent a mushy casserole.
* **Brown the Ground Beef Properly:** Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
* **Simmer the Sauce:** Simmering the sauce for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex taste.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce will significantly improve the flavor of the casserole.
* **Customize the Cheese:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Freeze it for Later:** Baked Johnny Marzetti freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations on Johnny Marzetti
* **Vegetarian Johnny Marzetti:** Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
* **Chicken Johnny Marzetti:** Use ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef.
* **Spicy Johnny Marzetti:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce.
* **Deluxe Johnny Marzetti:** Add sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or other vegetables to the sauce.
* **Creamy Johnny Marzetti:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Johnny Marzetti is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of side dishes.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and flavorful additions.
* **Coleslaw:** Creamy coleslaw adds a cool and tangy element to the meal.
* **Fruit Salad:** A light and refreshing fruit salad is a perfect way to end the meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
* Calories: 400-500 per serving
* Protein: 25-30 grams
* Fat: 20-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
* **Can I use different types of noodles?**
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?**
Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well before adding them to the sauce.
* **Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?**
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed in the recipe. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese), and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* **How do I store leftover Johnny Marzetti?**
Store leftover Johnny Marzetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
* **Can I add sausage to this recipe?**
Yes! Brown Italian sausage (sweet or hot) along with the ground beef for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Is Johnny Marzetti gluten-free?**
No, traditional Johnny Marzetti is not gluten-free because it contains egg noodles. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
Johnny Marzetti is more than just a casserole; it’s a taste of home, a comforting classic that brings people together. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family will love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish that will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, Johnny Marzetti is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy! It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights and provides substantial leftovers for lunch the next day. This versatile dish can easily be modified to include your favorite vegetables or different types of cheeses. So, unleash your creativity and make it your own! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!