Name: Johnny Marzetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487381H35M45S
Total time: PT-487381H35M45S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 lb bulk Italian sausage; 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup chopped green bell pepper; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 (15‑oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (14½‑oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tbsp brown sugar; 1½ tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp crushed red pepper; 12 oz dried elbow macaroni (cook separately); 1 (8‑oz) pkg shredded Italian‑blend cheese; 1 (8‑oz) pkg shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Short Description

A hearty, comfort‑food classic featuring layers of savory ground beef, Italian sausage, vegetables, tomato sauce, and macaroni—topped with two melty cheeses in a cozy baked casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A nostalgic, all-in-one casserole with balanced sweet, savory, and spicy tomato flavor
Ground beef and Italian sausage add depth and heartiness
Elbow macaroni holds sauce wonderfully
Two layers of cheese provide melty, gooey richness
Perfect for feeding family or meal‑prep dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Nonstick cooking spray
1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb bulk Italian sausage
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (15‑oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14½‑oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp brown sugar
1½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp crushed red pepper
12 oz dried elbow macaroni (cook according to package instructions)
1 (8‑oz) pkg shredded Italian-blend cheese
1 (8‑oz) pkg shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions

Cook the Beef Mixture

Preheat the oven to 350 °F and coat a 3‑quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the meat is browned and vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Finish the Sauce

Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, oregano, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 5–10 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Assemble the Casserole

Cook macaroni per package instructions; drain and set aside.
Spread the cooked elbow macaroni in the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with the Italian-blend cheese.
Spoon the meat sauce over the cheese layer to cover completely. Cover the dish with foil.

Bake and Finish

Bake covered for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Serves 6–8 generously
Prep Time: ~15 minutes
Cook Time: ~8 minutes meat + 5–10 minutes sauce simmer + 50 minutes baking
Total Time: ~75–80 minutes

Variations

Pasta swap: Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of elbow macaroni.
Spicy upgrade: Increase crushed red pepper or add chopped jalapeños for heat.
Vegetable boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach in the beef mixture.
Health swap: Use turkey or chicken sausage and whole‑wheat pasta for a lighter version.
Cheesy change: Use mozzarella, Fontina, or pepper jack for different melt and flavor.

Storage / Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or in the oven at 350 °F until warmed through—cover loosely to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—prepare the meat sauce and pasta, then assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely—freeze baked or unbaked in a freezer-safe dish (ensure it’s well covered). Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake or reheat as needed.

3. Do I have to use both types of cheese?

No—but the dual-cheese layers create melty Italian-style cheese under the sauce with sharper cheddar on top for flavor contrast.

4. Can I use canned beans or vegetarian sausage?

Yes—omit meat entirely and add beans or cooked plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute soy sauce with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar for tangy depth.

6. How can I reduce sodium?

Use low-sodium tomato products and sausage, reduce Worcestershire or omit added salt as needed.

7. Are the peppers and onions essential?

They add flavor and texture depth. If omitted, consider adding another vegetable or herb for interest.

8. How do I ensure the pasta absorbs the sauce?

Serve soon after baking; if sauce is too dry afterward, drizzle warm tomato sauce or milk before reheating.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes—use a larger baking dish or two casseroles; adjust bake time slightly depending on depth.

10. Can I top it with fresh herbs?

Yes—finish with chopped basil, parsley, or oregano for freshness and color.

Conclusion

Johnny Marzetti Casserole is the ultimate feel-good dinner that brings together pasta, savory meats, vegetables, and two layers of melty cheese in a no-nonsense bake. With effortless prep and rich flavor combinations, it’s ideal for feeding a crowd or indulging in classic comfort food.