Johnny Marzetti Casserole
Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a comforting baked pasta dish featuring ground beef, vegetables, creamy soups, and melted sharp Cheddar, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, green peppers, and chopped celery; simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded Cheddar cheese; simmer until the cheese melts.
- Cook and drain the noodles separately.
- Add the cooked noodles to the meat and sauce mixture; mix well.
- Divide the mixture into two large casseroles.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, substitute fresh vegetables with frozen mixed vegetables. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. To boost creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream before baking. For extra cheese flavor, mix in some mozzarella as well.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can enhance presentation. Pairs beautifully with Quick Beef And Beans Casserole for a satisfying dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Johnny Marzetti Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Marzetti Casserole contains roughly 389 calories, with 11g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (311% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 Johnny Marzetti Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using a roux with mushrooms and cream. Alternatively, a simple béchamel sauce can also work well to maintain a creamy texture.
Can I freeze Johnny Marzetti Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it either before or after baking. Make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).