John Benghetti
A hearty and flavorful ground beef and sausage casserole with colorful peppers and onions, topped with melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Discolor meat in a little shortening in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, salt, and pepper to the meat.
- Combine the cooked meat mixture with the drained noodles and can of English peas in a dish.
- Pour the can of tomato soup over the mixture.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Heat in the oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with green salad and French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and add spices like Italian seasoning for extra flavor. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using whole grain noodles or zucchini noodles instead. Remember to cook the onions and peppers until they are soft to enhance their sweetness, which will balance the savory flavors of the meat and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the John Benghetti hot, ideally with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette and crusty French bread on the side. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with Debby'S Cheesy Spaghetti Bake for a comforting meal. Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. You may want to add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John Benghetti contains roughly 683 calories, with 26g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% 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 other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked properly.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an added kick. Alternatively, consider using spicy sausage instead of regular sausage for more heat.
What can I serve instead of bread?
If you're looking for alternatives to bread, consider serving the dish with garlic breadsticks or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Both options complement the rich flavors of the John Benghetti nicely.
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).