Johnny Marette
A hearty pork and noodle casserole with creamy tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings requiring comforting, savory dishes with a touch of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the diced pork and finely chopped onions in shortening, stirring constantly until browned and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, boil the egg noodles in salted water until tender, then drain.
- Combine the cooked pork and onions with the drained noodles in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cream of tomato soup and tomato juice to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and spread evenly.
- Bake in a moderate oven (around 350°F or 175°C) for about an hour until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this Johnny Marette, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano during the cooking process. If you want a lighter version, substitute the pork with chicken or turkey. For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking. Remember to constantly stir the pork and onions to avoid burning while frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Marette hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Hodgepodge Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a green vegetable like steamed broccoli. A simple green salad also complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Johnny Marette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Marette contains roughly 2419 calories, with 23g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 250g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 655mg per serving (28% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pork with chicken, turkey, or even beef for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose. Ground meats can also work, but be cautious of cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I do if I don't have egg noodles?
If you don't have egg noodles, you can substitute them with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version of this dish.
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).