Manzetta
A hearty and flavorful baked spaghetti casserole with seasoned ground beef, savory tomato sauce, olives, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add sliced green pepper and cook briefly, then drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture with tomato paste, tomato sauce, stuffed sliced olives, garlic salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cook the thin spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti into the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture while it simmers. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the sautéed vegetables can enhance the dish's nutrition. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier pasta option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Manzetta with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top enhances the presentation and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. For a cozy gathering, consider serving it alongside other comforting American recipes like Beef And Bread Dip or Crockpot Meat Balls.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. It can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manzetta contains roughly 818 calories, with 35g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 869mg per serving (38% 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 pasta?
Yes, you can substitute thin spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of the beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).