Introduction
Johnny Marzetti casserole is a beloved comfort food dish that combines pasta, meat, cheese, and a variety of savory flavors. Perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to make. With its rich, hearty ingredients, Johnny Marzetti is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time
The prep time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you will gather all your ingredients, chop the vegetables, and brown the ground beef.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is roughly 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it a perfect dish for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy your delicious Johnny Marzetti casserole!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting the preparation of the casserole.
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Brown the Meat
In a skillet, over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables
To the same skillet, add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, approximately 5 minutes.
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat, sautéed vegetables, and any additional ingredients specified in the recipe, such as marinara sauce and cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Substitute different types of pasta, meat, or vegetables as desired.
Storage Instructions
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing Tips
This casserole can also be frozen before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Cook techniques
Layering
Layering ingredients effectively helps to distribute flavors evenly throughout the casserole. Start with a base layer of pasta, followed by sauce, and then cheese, repeating as needed.
Oven Baking
Baking in the oven allows the ingredients to meld together while developing a golden, crispy top. Preheat your oven to ensure consistent cooking results.
Simmering
Simmering allows flavors to develop further. If your casserole includes a sauce, simmer it gently on the stove before mixing it with other ingredients.
Cheese Melting
For a perfect cheese top, choose a blend of cheeses and allow them to melt evenly. Broiling for a few minutes at the end can help achieve a bubbling, golden-brown finish.
FAQ
Can I make Johnny Marzetti casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
What can I substitute for ground beef in the recipe?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian substitute like lentils or mushrooms for a lighter option.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, Johnny Marzetti casserole freezes well. Freeze it before baking or after it’s cooked and cooled. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What are some variations of the recipe?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and experiment with different types of cheese or pasta.
Conclusion
The Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of pasta, ground meat, and a mix of vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food for family gatherings or busy weeknights. Its versatility allows for different ingredient substitutions and variations to cater to personal preferences, ensuring that each serving can be uniquely satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Marzetti
Swap out the meat for a variety of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, to create a meatless version that is equally delicious and loaded with nutrients.
Cheesy Chicken Marzetti
Use cooked shredded chicken instead of ground beef, and add extra cheese for a creamy, cheesy twist that the whole family will love.
Spicy Sausage Marzetti
Incorporate spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat. This alternative brings bold flavors and spices that elevate the dish.
Southwestern Marzetti
Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies along with a sprinkle of taco seasoning to give your casserole a Southwestern flair.
Italian Herb Marzetti
Flavor the casserole with Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, along with diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian taste.
Breakfast Marzetti
Transform it into a breakfast dish by including scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage, topped with shredded cheese for a comforting morning meal.