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A hearty and comforting Midwest classic, this baked casserole features tender egg noodles, savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. A true crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners.
For 8 servings
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (3-quart) baking dish.
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles in generously salted boiling water according to package directions, but undercook them by 1-2 minutes so they are very al dente. Drain well and set aside.
While the noodles cook, heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), 1.5 tsp salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it gently simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the drained egg noodles to the meat sauce and stir gently until everything is well combined.
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A hearty and comforting Midwest classic, this baked casserole features tender egg noodles, savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. A true crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners.
This midwest recipe takes 75 minutes to prepare and yields 8 servings. At 483.51 calories per serving with 33.86g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for dinner or supper.
Pour the noodle and meat mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or corn into the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.
Use a different cheese or a blend, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Provolone/Mozzarella mix.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings for a touch of heat.
While egg noodles are classic, you can also use other sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or ziti.
Ground beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
The tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are excellent sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and is linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.
Beef and enriched pasta are good sources of B vitamins, including niacin (B3) and cobalamin (B12), which are crucial for converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Enjoying a warm, satisfying meal like this casserole can have a positive impact on mental well-being, providing a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
John Marzetti is a classic American comfort food casserole that originated in Columbus, Ohio. It was created by Teresa Marzetti, an Italian immigrant, at her restaurant in the early 20th century and named after her brother-in-law, John.
John Marzetti is a hearty and calorie-dense comfort food. While it provides protein and some nutrients from the vegetables and tomatoes, it is also high in carbohydrates, sodium, and saturated fat. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can make it healthier by using leaner ground meat, whole wheat pasta, and adding more vegetables.
A typical serving of this John Marzetti Casserole contains approximately 550-600 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the ground beef and the type of cheese.
Yes, this is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Absolutely. You can freeze it either before or after baking. For an unbaked casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, covered with foil, for about 1 hour, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with plant-based ground 'meat', lentils, or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini.