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Johnny Marzetti Casserole
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Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Johnny Marzetti is an easy classic pasta casserole, first developed in the 1950's. A surprise ingredient, cream cheese, enriches the simple tomato sauce.
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time50 mins
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Terri @ that's some good cookin'

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cups sliced, fresh mushrooms (I used crimini)
  • 1 small green or red pepper, small dice
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 29 ounce can pureed tomatoes
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup, I used Campbell's Healthy Request
  • 1 8 ounce package cream cheese (light cream cheese is fine)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder or granulated onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • grated cheese, type and amount as per personal preference Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or a pre-shredded Italian blend are commonly used.

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350-degrees F. Lightly spray a 9" x13" baking dish or similar size baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
  • In a large, deep skillet over medium heat cook ground beef, onions, garlic, peppers, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper just until the vegetables begin to soften, stirring as needed. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook over medium heat until the mushrooms are soft. Stir as needed. (I covered my skillet to help return some of the moisture to the mixture.)
  • Stir in the tomato puree, cream of mushroom soup, and oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
  • Cut the cream cheese into cubes and stir into mixture. Cook and stir until cream cheese is well blended into the sauce. Taste sauce and correct seasonings.
  • Prepare pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well. Add the pasta to the sauce and stir well.
  • Pour into prepared casserole dish. Bake at 350-degrees for about 30 minutes or until cheese has melted and casserole is hot and bubbly.

Notes

  • The casserole can be lightened up by using extra lean ground beef, low-fat cream cheese and low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
  • A jalapeno pepper brings a touch of heat, but not too much. Red pepper flakes can be added to pump up the heat factor.