John Marzetti Casserole
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.
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.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly.
- 2Don't overcook the noodles in the initial boiling step. They will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy if overdone.
- 3Draining the grease from the ground beef is a crucial step to prevent a greasy casserole.
- 4Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking is essential. It allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes for cleaner slices.
- 5This dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
VegetablesVegetables
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or corn into the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.
CheeseCheese
Use a different cheese or a blend, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Provolone/Mozzarella mix.
SpiceSpice
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings for a touch of heat.
PastaPasta
While egg noodles are classic, you can also use other sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or ziti.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Ground beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Source of Lycopene
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.
Provides B Vitamins
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.
Comfort Food for Well-being
Enjoying a warm, satisfying meal like this casserole can have a positive impact on mental well-being, providing a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Frequently asked questions
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.
