Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this Johnny Marzetti will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under an hour.
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Cheesy and hearty. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pasta and cheese.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
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1 lb ground beef (80–90% lean)
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24 oz jar tomato pasta sauce (your favorite brand)
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3 cups shredded mild or sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Ingredient Notes
Macaroni: Use uncooked elbow macaroni.
Ground beef: Use 80% to 90% lean ground beef.
Tomato pasta sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce.
Cheddar cheese: Use mild or sharp cheddar. Divide into 2 cups and 1 cup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2 to 3-quart oval baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain well.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain off excess fat.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the tomato pasta sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the beef and sauce mixture. Add 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Johnny Marzetti
This cheesy, hearty casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Extra Parmesan: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Italian Sausage: Use Italian sausage.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or ziti.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or vodka sauce.
Make It with Vegetables: Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Make It with Herbs: Add oregano or basil.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add diced onion.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. It will finish in the oven.
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the casserole greasy.
Do not overbake. The cheese should be melted, not burnt.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or ziti can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or vodka sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 4 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without cheese?
Yes. Omit the cheese for a different dish.
The Beauty of Johnny Marzetti
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, cheesy, hearty casserole that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This Johnny Marzetti is a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep pasta, sauce, and cheese in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Rest Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings