Mezetti
A hearty, flavorful casserole with ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bell peppers, onion, and celery in butter.
- Brown the ground beef.
- Cook the egg noodles.
- Mix the cooked vegetables, ground beef, spaghetti sauce, cream of mushroom soup, chili powder, and cooked noodles together.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the sautéed vegetables. If you prefer a healthier version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also use whole wheat egg noodles for added nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different cheese options, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to personalize the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes. It’s a great option for family dinners or potlucks, and you can also enjoy it as a comforting lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mezetti contains roughly 348 calories, with 10g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1225mg 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 use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type, and follow the package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using a meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms. Additionally, ensure that your spaghetti sauce and cream of mushroom soup are vegetarian-friendly. This will still create a delicious and hearty meal.
Can I freeze Mezetti for later?
Yes, Mezetti freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave directly from frozen, adjusting the time as needed.
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).