Pioneer Woman’s Johnny Marzetti is a classic casserole dish filled with ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. This nostalgic dish is not just delicious; it’s also simple to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or a potluck favorite, Johnny Marzetti will be a hit!

What is Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti?

Johnny Marzetti is a beloved casserole dish that originated in the Midwest, known for its hearty ingredients and delicious flavor. The dish typically includes ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners.
Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients that are often already in your pantry.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when you’re ready, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced

8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 (24-ounce) jar of tomato sauce

2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking spray

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables: Add diced onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Season: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir well to combine.
Add Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet and stir until everything is well mixed. Let simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir until the pasta is well-coated.
Assemble Casserole: Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or garlic bread.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti

Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread pairs perfectly with the cheesy, savory flavors of the casserole.
Green Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad tossed with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
Red Wine: A glass of red wine enhances the rich flavors of the beef and tomato sauce.
Pickles: Add some tangy pickles on the side for a contrasting flavor.

Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the casserole.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti

Drain Excess Fat: If your ground beef is very fatty, drain the excess fat before adding the vegetables to prevent a greasy casserole.
Use Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, consider using fresh oregano and basil instead of dried herbs.

Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for an added crunch.
Include More Veggies: Add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or carrots to boost the nutritional content.

Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti

Turkey Marzetti: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Marzetti: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like eggplant and zucchini.

Mexican Marzetti: Add taco seasoning and use Mexican cheese blend for a spicy twist.
Italian Sausage: Replace ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Chicken Marzetti: Use cooked, shredded chicken instead of beef for a different protein option.

Storing Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti: Best Practices

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze for Later: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid Moisture: Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Use Foil or Plastic Wrap: Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti: Best Practices

Oven Reheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave Method: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth.

Add Moisture: Add a splash of water or broth to the casserole before reheating to keep it moist.
Check Temperature: Ensure the casserole is heated through by checking that the center is warm.
Use a Toaster Oven: Reheat small portions in a toaster oven for a quick and easy option.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g

Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g

Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 25g

FAQs

What Meat Can I Use for Johnny Marzetti?

Johnny Marzetti is traditionally made with ground beef, but you can easily substitute it with other meats. Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives that offer different flavors and textures. Vegetarian versions can also be made by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables.

How Do I Make Johnny Marzetti Ahead of Time?

To make Johnny Marzetti ahead of time, prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover the assembled dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking according to the recipe instructions.

Can I Add Vegetables to Johnny Marzetti?

Yes, adding vegetables to Johnny Marzetti is a great way to enhance its flavor and nutritional content. Common additions include zucchini, spinach, carrots, or peas. Simply add them to the skillet with the onions and peppers, cooking until they are tender before combining with the pasta and sauce.

What Pasta is Best for Johnny Marzetti?

Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for Johnny Marzetti, but other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini can also be used. Choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well and provides a satisfying texture in each bite.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Johnny Marzetti is a comforting and versatile casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a staple in many households. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy exploring different variations and making this classic recipe your own!

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