Marzetti
A hearty and comforting pasta dish featuring savory ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, and tender noodles topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add stewed tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano to the beef mixture.
- Add water and bring to a simmer.
- Add the thin noodles and cook until noodles are tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you don't have thin noodles, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand. Leftover cooked vegetables or beans can also be added for extra nutrition. This dish can be made ahead and reheats well, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Classic Baked Mostaccioli or Italian Macaroni Casserole. A glass of red wine would also complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marzetti contains roughly 557 calories, with 21g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), and calcium (150% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. The cooking time will remain the same, but be sure to season well, as these meats can be milder in flavor. You may also want to add extra herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
What can I do with leftover Marzetti?
Leftover Marzetti can be transformed into a baked dish. Simply place it in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. You can also mix it into a soup for added texture or serve it as a filling for stuffed peppers for a creative twist.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of water for simmering and increase the amount of vegetables to enhance the flavors. This variation retains the heartiness of the original dish while being meat-free.
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).