Go Back
–+ servings
A plate of Johnny marzetti casserole recipe and salad.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
4.84 from 6 votes

Johnny Marzetti Casserole Recipe

This Johnny Marzetti Casserole recipe is a classic pasta casserole that's so easy to make in under an hour. With affordable ingredients, it's a nostalgic dinner that's great for feeding a crowd any day of the week.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beef, pasta
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 399kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 10-12 ounces dry egg noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • Seasoning options: seasoning salt, salt and black pepper, fresh or dried garlic, crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning
  • 14.5 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 6 ounce can tomato paste
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Cook the egg noodles in boiling water 1 minute less than the package calls for al dente, then drain and set aside. 
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, diced celery, and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess fat if needed. Season as desired.
  • Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Mix the cooked noodles into the meat sauce. Transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. 
  • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Video

Notes

Tips: 
    • Don't overcook the egg noodles! These cook much faster than regular pasta. We often like to cook them a minute less than the package instructions since they will also continue cooking in the oven.
    • When using tomato paste, be sure to cook it for a minute or two until it lightly caramelizes. This will enhance it's flavor and make the sauce even better.
    • Drain any fat from the beef. We often like to use lean beef so we don't have to drain excess fat. But if there is a lot after browning, you will want to drain it so your Johnny Marzetti casserole isn't greasy.
    • Taste the Sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add sugar, brown sugar, honey or sugar substitute to your taste preference.
    • Grate your cheddar cheese by hand. This makes a huge different. Pre-shredded cheddar cheese can have a powder on it that prevents it from melting as nicely.
  •  
  •  
  •  
Storage: 
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
You can also freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw before reheating. We like to note the egg noodles may not be the same texture after freezing, but the bake itself will still be delicious.
It's great to make Johnny Marzetti in advance! Make the different components, allow them to cool, then layer them in the casserole dish and store covered in the fridge. Bake right before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 399kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 885mg | Potassium: 958mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 877IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 210mg | Iron: 5mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @dinnerin321 or tag #dinnerin321!