Maretti
Maretti is a hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, tender noodles, and vegetables, all baked under a cheesy topping. Its comforting flavors and simple ingredients make it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying and filling meal with a touch of creamy tomato goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped celery, and large diced onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add cooked noodles to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- In a large bowl, stir in the corn (undrained), tomato soup, mushroom stems and pieces, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish.
- Top with shredded American or Cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onion and celery. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. This dish can also be customized with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a vibrant twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Maretti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Saucy Skillet Pasta for a comforting dinner. You can also top individual servings with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of flavor. For a delightful twist, try combining it with Coney Island Topping For Hot Dogs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maretti contains roughly 452 calories, with 12g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (223% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1667mg per serving (72% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. You might want to add some Italian seasoning to mimic the flavor profile of the soup. Just ensure that the consistency remains similar for the best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a combination of beans and lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of milk and replace the cheese with a dairy-free option to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
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).