Best Easy Johnny Marzetti Recipe

Johnny Marzetti bakes ground beef, noodles, and tomato sauce with melted cheese for an Ohio family potluck legend. This protein-rich, budget-friendly casserole has been a Midwestern staple since the 1920s.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 390 kcal
#high protein #budget friendly #family dinner #potluck classic
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef 1 lb
  • elbow macaroni 2 cups
  • yellow onion 1 medium
  • green bell pepper 1 medium
  • shredded cheddar cheese 1.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • tomato sauce 2 cups
  • diced tomatoes 1 cup
  • garlic cloves 2 cloves
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 39%
Protein 22 g 23%
Fat 15 g 35%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni just until barely al dente, about 6–7 minutes; drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Once fully browned (about 7–8 minutes), drain excess fat for a lighter casserole.

  3. 3

    Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté on medium heat for 5 minutes, until vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.

  4. 4

    Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Simmer sauce on medium-low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop flavor and slightly thicken.

  5. 5

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the partially cooked macaroni with the meat sauce. Transfer mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.

  6. 6

    Bake, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let rest 10 minutes before serving to set the casserole.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Johnny Marzetti recipe?
The key ingredient is ground beef, which provides the classic hearty flavor and protein that define Johnny Marzetti. Combined with noodles and tomato sauce, it creates the signature taste and texture of this beloved casserole.
Q. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy when baking?
Cook the macaroni just until barely al dente, so they remain firm. This ensures they absorb flavor and finish cooking perfectly in the oven without getting overcooked or mushy.
Q. What are crucial heat and timing steps for best results?
It's important to brown the beef on medium-high heat, sauté the vegetables until just softened, and simmer the sauce to combine flavors before baking. Finish by baking the assembled casserole uncovered to achieve a bubbly, golden cheese top.
Q. How many calories and macronutrients are in each serving?
Each serving (320g) has about 390 kcal, with 38g carbohydrates (39% of calories), 22g protein (23%), and 15g fat (35%). This balance makes it a protein-rich and satisfying meal.
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