If you’re looking for a hearty, nostalgic dish that’s stood the test of time, look no further than Johnny Marzetti Casserole. This beloved Midwestern comfort food is a cheesy, meaty pasta bake that’s been filling bellies since the early 20th century. It’s affordable, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or just when you’re craving something cozy and delicious.
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What Is Johnny Marzetti Casserole?
Johnny Marzetti is a baked pasta casserole made with ground beef (or sometimes Italian sausage), noodles (typically elbow macaroni or egg noodles), tomato sauce, and melty cheese. Think of it as a Midwestern take on an Italian-American baked ziti—but with its own rich history and regional charm.
Main Ingredients:
Ground beef or Italian sausage
Elbow macaroni or egg noodles
Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
Onion and green bell pepper
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Optional: mushrooms, olives, or Italian seasoning
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A Brief History of Johnny Marzetti
The dish is named after Johnny Marzetti, the brother-in-law of Teresa Marzetti, who ran a popular Italian restaurant in Columbus, Ohio in the early 1900s. The casserole became a house special at Marzetti’s Restaurant, and its popularity quickly spread across the Midwest. It was a staple in school cafeterias and church cookbooks by the mid-20th century and is still a comfort food favorite today.
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Why It’s Still Popular
1. Easy to Make
Johnny Marzetti requires simple ingredients and only about 15 minutes of prep time. Once assembled, it bakes in the oven and comes out bubbly and golden.
2. Customizable
Whether you’re feeding picky kids or trying to use up leftovers, the recipe is flexible. Swap in ground turkey for beef, use gluten-free pasta, or add vegetables to suit your needs.
3. Feeds a Crowd
One casserole dish can easily serve 6–8 people, making it a go-to for family meals or entertaining.
4. Great for Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully and is often even better the next day. Some folks even freeze it in portions for easy weekday dinners.
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How to Make Johnny Marzetti Casserole: Step-by-Step
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the beef, onion, and pepper until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in tomato sauce and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and meat sauce.
5. Pour into a greased casserole dish and top with cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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Tips for the Perfect Casserole
Add a layer of cheese in the middle for extra gooeyness.
Top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a crispy finish.
Swap out pasta types for different textures—rigatoni or rotini work great!