Go Back
Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Johnny Marzetti Casserole Recipe

Johnny Marzetti Casserole is a classic comfort food dish made with ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. It's a hearty and budget-friendly meal, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Baking dish (9x13 inches)
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • For the Casserole:
  • 1 lb 450g ground beef or turkey
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or penne
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional Additions:
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni or penne according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  • Drain any excess fat.

Add the Tomato Sauce and Seasonings:

  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and mix well to coat.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  • Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.

Bake the Casserole:

  • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it Rest and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread!

Notes

  • You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • This dish freezes well; freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.
  • Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a different twist.
Johnny Marzetti Casserole
Johnny Marzetti Casserole
Enjoy your homemade Johnny Marzetti Casserole! 🍽️
Keyword Baked pasta casserole, ground beef casserole