🍲 Johnny Marzetti Casserole (Ground Beef Casserole)

Here’s a comforting and hearty Johnny Marzetti Casserole — a Midwest classic! This easy ground beef casserole combines pasta, tomato sauce, cheese, and veggies for a filling, family-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week.

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🍲 Johnny Marzetti Casserole (Ground Beef Casserole)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: 6–8

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📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until veggies are soft and beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine pasta and sauce mixture in a large bowl or casserole dish. Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
5. Top with remaining cheese and cover with foil.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

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✅ Tips:

• Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
• Use ground turkey or sausage as a variation.
• Make ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.