Description
Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a classic American comfort food featuring a hearty combination of ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and a rich blend of cheeses, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners, delivering a warm, satisfying meal with layers of savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking in the casserole.
- Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the skillet with the meat sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and meat mixture.
- Assemble and Add Cheese: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, signaling a perfectly cooked casserole ready to serve.
Notes
- To avoid soggy pasta, make sure to drain macaroni thoroughly after boiling.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For added vegetables, consider mixing in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes along with Italian seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
