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Comforting Midwest Loaded Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Johnny Marzetti casserole - featured image
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A hearty and nostalgic Midwestern casserole featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for family meals and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 9.5 oz)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Optional add-ins: sliced mushrooms, frozen peas, cooked bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until veggies soften and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and beef-tomato mixture. Stir well to coat.
  7. Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella over the layer. Top with remaining pasta mixture and sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushy casserole. Drain fat from beef to prevent greasiness. Sauté veggies with beef for better flavor. Season gradually as cheese adds saltiness. Cover with foil if top browns too quickly. Broil last 1–2 minutes for crispier top if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Johnny Marzetti, casserole, Midwestern comfort food, ground beef casserole, cheesy pasta bake, family meal, easy dinner

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/comforting-midwest-loaded-johnny-marzetti-casserole-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-family-meals/