Johnny Marsietta
A hearty, cheesy casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, noodles, and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger meat and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and cooked shell noodles to the meat mixture; stir well.
- Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer grated Cheddar cheese over the top, finishing with a final layer of cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the hamburger while cooking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to add more veggies, bell peppers or spinach can be great additions. Make sure to cook the shell noodles al dente so they hold up during baking. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting family meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Marsietta hot out of the oven for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. You might also consider serving it alongside Baked Peas for a comforting, nostalgic meal. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Johnny Marsietta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for quick meals. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just thaw and bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Marsietta contains roughly 396 calories, with 19g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1741mg per serving (76% 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 Johnny Marsietta ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to mix in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also use a blend of cheeses to enhance the flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the hamburger meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative or using lentils. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian as well, or make your own using vegetable broth and mushrooms for added flavor.
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).