Named after an Italian immigrant, Johnny Marzetti Casserole first gained popularity in the early 20th century in the Midwest, particularly in Ohio. It was originally created by Teresa Marzetti, who owned a restaurant in Columbus, Ohio. Over the years, this humble casserole has become a beloved comfort food staple in American cuisine.
Ingredients Required
To prepare Johnny Marzetti Casserole, you will need:
- Ground beef
- Pasta (typically elbow macaroni)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato sauce
- Canned tomatoes
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Cheese (usually cheddar or mozzarella)
Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
Baking the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Variations and Substitutions
There are countless ways to customize Johnny Marzetti Casserole to suit your taste preferences. Some popular variations include:
- Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Using different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini.
- Substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Experimenting with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or provolone.
Serving Suggestions
Johnny Marzetti Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Crusty bread rolls
Nutritional Information
While Johnny Marzetti Casserole is undeniably delicious, it is also a hearty and filling dish. One serving typically contains a moderate amount of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats. However, the nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size used in the recipe.
Why Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a Popular Dish
Johnny Marzetti Casserole has stood the test of time for several reasons. Not only is it easy to prepare and budget-friendly, but it also offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures that appeal to both children and adults alike. Additionally, its versatility makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.
Health Benefits
While Johnny Marzetti Casserole may not be the healthiest dish on the menu, it does offer some nutritional benefits. For example, it provides a good source of protein from the ground beef, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and pasta. Additionally, by using lean ground beef and opting for whole wheat pasta, you can boost the nutritional value of the dish.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting the Recipe
- Be sure to drain the cooked pasta well to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more or less salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as desired.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking.
Conclusion
Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a timeless classic that continues to delight generations of food lovers with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a potluck party, this hearty dish is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a must-try recipe for any home cook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the origin of Johnny Marzetti Casserole?
- Johnny Marzetti Casserole originated in the Midwest, particularly in Ohio, and was named after an Italian immigrant who owned a restaurant in Columbus.
- Can I use turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
- Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in Johnny Marzetti Casserole for a lighter alternative.
- How long does it take to bake Johnny Marzetti Casserole?
- Johnny Marzetti Casserole typically bakes for around 25-30 minutes covered with foil, then an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Can I freeze Johnny Marzetti Casserole for later consumption?
- Yes, Johnny Marzetti Casserole can be frozen for later consumption. Simply prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
- Is Johnny Marzetti Casserole gluten-free?
- No, traditional Johnny Marzetti Casserole
JOHNNY MARZETTI CASSEROLE – (GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE RECIPE)
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
1 pound ground beef
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the ground beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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