Marzitta
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, peas, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Chop in the chopped celery and cook for a few more minutes.
- Cook the egg noodles in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- Mix the grated cheese with 1 cup of tomato juice and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and red pepper.
- Combine the cooked beef, onions, celery, noodles, peas, and the cheese mixture in a large dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato juice over the mixture and stir well.
- Put the dish in the oven and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers to the sautéed onions and celery. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute, and adjust cooking times accordingly. For a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese. This dish also works well with leftover meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Marzitta hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a hearty option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marzitta contains roughly 558 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (188% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1220mg per serving (53% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Marzitta a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients and store in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you prefer a different pasta, feel free to substitute egg noodles with penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, ensuring it remains al dente before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze Marzitta?
Absolutely! Marzitta freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, or microwave individual portions until hot.
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).