Jane Mueck'S "Johnny Mazetti Casserole"
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, melted American cheese, and flavorful vegetables, baked to perfection — ideal for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the ground beef in a skillet until browned.
- Add chopped celery, onions, bell pepper, and mushrooms; sauté until soft.
- Stir in tomato soup and half of the grated American cheese; cook for about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the medium flat noodles until al dente.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the meat and vegetable mixture and transfer to a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining grated American cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with salad and garlic bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the tomato soup before combining it with the other ingredients. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist on this classic Johnny Mazetti Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Jimmy'S Chili for those who enjoy a heartier dinner. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a few minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, add a little water or broth before reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jane Mueck'S "Johnny Mazetti Casserole" contains roughly 355 calories, with 5g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1651mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta in this casserole?
Absolutely! While medium flat noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta you have on hand, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose for the best texture.
What can I do if I don't have American cheese?
If American cheese isn't available, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious in the casserole.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat and vegetable mixture. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra layer of heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).