Noodle Marzetti
A hearty, cheesy noodle dish with seasoned beef, vegetables, and flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the hamburger and chopped onion.
- Remove excess fat; add chopped green pepper, garlic powder, canned tomatoes, and beef bouillon cubes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, blend cornstarch, water, and sugar; add to the skillet mixture.
- Cook and stir for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.
- Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and combine with the sauce.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Experiment with different cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a twist. This dish also works well as a base for other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Noodle Marzetti is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Mr. Tim'S Corn Bread for a comforting touch. You can also top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the noodles have absorbed too much sauce, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle Marzetti contains roughly 924 calories, with 41g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (163% of the Daily Value), protein (83% of the Daily Value), and calcium (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2884mg per serving (125% 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 Noodle Marzetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before serving. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just remember to add extra moisture when reheating if needed.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese, Monterey Jack or a blend of Italian cheeses can work well. For a sharper taste, try using Gruyère or aged Gouda. You can also leave out the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option and still enjoy this flavorful dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of Noodle Marzetti?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon cubes, and feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
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).