Johnny Mascetti Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory beef, tender noodles, and flavorful tomato sauces, topped with cheese. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and celery with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until tender.
- Brown the hamburger in the same skillet.
- Combine the cooked vegetables, hamburger, tomato soup, tomato paste, pizza sauce, mushrooms, olives, and cooked egg noodles in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly and cheese is melted, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a can of cream of mushroom soup to the mixture. You can also swap out the hamburger for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can save you some hassle.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Johnny Mascetti Casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a light coleslaw for added crunch. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of flavor. It makes for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep the noodles moist. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Mascetti Casserole contains roughly 291 calories, with 13g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can use mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Mixing different cheeses, like adding some Parmesan or provolone, can also enhance the overall taste of the casserole.
What if I don't have some of the ingredients?
If you're missing tomato soup, you can substitute with a homemade mixture of crushed tomatoes and spices. For the olives, you can use capers or leave them out altogether. This recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.
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).