Johnny Manyetty
A hearty, savory casserole blending ground beef, noodles, and vegetables in a creamy mushroom and tomato sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked.
- Add chopped onion to the beef and cook until translucent.
- Cook chopped celery and green pepper in water until tender, then drain.
- Mix the cooked noodles, browned beef with onions, cooked celery and green pepper, canned mushrooms, mushroom soup, and tomato soup together in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute. Adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor. Don't skip draining the cooked vegetables well to prevent a watery dish. This recipe is similar to Beef Shepherd's Pie but with a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes complements the flavors well. For a heartier option, consider serving with baked beans. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be scaled up.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Manyetty contains roughly 511 calories, with 22g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate overnight, and then bake it the next day. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of mushrooms?
If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with diced zucchini or bell peppers for added texture. Alternatively, omit them altogether and increase the amount of celery or green pepper for extra flavor. Adjust the soup accordingly for consistency.
Is it possible to freeze the Johnny Manyetty?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.
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).