Mezzetti
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, noodles, and creamy soups, topped with melted cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat shortening in a skillet.
- Add ground beef, green pepper, and chopped onion.
- Cook until slightly brown.
- Add chili powder and garlic salt.
- Sprinkle noodles over the meat mixture.
- Pour water into the skillet.
- Mix tomato soup and mushroom soup together and pour over the meat and noodles.
- Cover the skillet.
- Bring to steaming, then turn to low heat and cook for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the mixture.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based protein. You can also use whole wheat noodles for a healthier option. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To enhance the dish, sauté some mushrooms along with the onions and green peppers, reminiscent of flavors found in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mezzetti hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, similar to comforting classics like Shepherd's Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Mezzetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through, or place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam it back to life. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mezzetti contains roughly 314 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg 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 make Mezzetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mezzetti ahead of time. Cook the dish according to the instructions, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated later, making it a convenient meal option for busy days.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. You may need to adjust the seasoning since tomato soup typically has added flavoring. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the acidity.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make Mezzetti vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of water and ensure your soups are 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).