Johnny Mazetti
Johnny Mazetti is a hearty, cheesy casserole combining savory ground beef, flavorful tomato sauces, vegetables, and noodles, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers comfort and rich flavors in every bite, with a satisfying baked finish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the ground beef, then add chopped or ground celery, onion, and green pepper.
- Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Add tomato soup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, garlic, olives, and mushrooms to the mixture.
- Simmer for 15 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add cooked noodles and mix well.
- Cover the mixture with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, or 2 hours if frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu. Additionally, using whole wheat noodles can enhance the dish's nutritional profile. Make sure to chop the vegetables finely for better texture and quicker cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Mazetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. Consider adding a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. This dish is also perfect for potlucks and can easily feed a crowd, making it a great choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, then heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Mazetti contains roughly 682 calories, with 18g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (80% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 Johnny Mazetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While grated yellow cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Blending cheeses can also add depth to the dish.
Can I add other vegetables to Johnny Mazetti?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
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).