johnny marzetti easy recipe

The Best johnny marzetti easy recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Johnny Marzetti easy recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for a busy weeknight dinner.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for them to learn some basic cooking skills. The origin of Johnny Marzetti is a bit unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the Midwest during the Great Depression. The dish is named after an Italian immigrant named Johnny Marzetti, who allegedly created this hearty casserole as a way to feed his community.

Regardless of its origins, this recipe has become a beloved classic in many American households. One of the things I love about Johnny Marzetti is the comforting flavor profile. It’s a combination of ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese that just hits all the right notes.

The pasta is cooked al dente and then mixed with the ground beef and tomato sauce, creating a rich and satisfying sauce. And let’s not forget the cheese – it adds a nice creaminess to the dish. The key to making this recipe work is using high-quality ingredients and cooking the pasta just right.

I like to use a combination of ground beef and sausage for added depth of flavor. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings – add some chopped fresh parsley or basil for added freshness. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty casserole for a family gathering.

It’s also incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients and toppings.

Johnny Marzetti Easy Recipe

4.9 from 558 votes

A classic American casserole with ground beef, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheese. This easy version comes together quickly for a comforting weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6Add ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 7 minutes.
7Drain any excess fat.
8Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
9Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10Combine the cooked macaroni and the meat sauce in a large bowl.
11Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
12Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
13Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
15Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Colander
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for the beef or add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor. For a spicier version, include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Watch Video Of How Johnny Marzetti Easy Recipe Works

Johnny Marzetti is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty casserole for a family gathering.

It’s also incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients and toppings.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it makes great leftovers – simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop and serve it up again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Johnny Marzetti

Q: What type of pasta should I use for Johnny Marzetti?

I recommend using elbow macaroni or shells for this recipe – they hold onto the sauce nicely and are easy to mix with the ground beef.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with extra vegetables or use plant-based ground meat alternatives.

Q: How do I store leftover Johnny Marzetti?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat Johnny Marzetti in the microwave?

Yes, but be careful not to overheat it – you can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven if you prefer.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Johnny Marzetti?

Serve with some crusty bread or garlic knots for added comfort food vibes.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

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