Updated Johnny Marzetti Casserole

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: American cheese

Reduced-fat options cut calories, while American cheese is often cheaper.

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: provolone cheese

Part-skim mozzarella is lower in fat, and provolone can be less expensive.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: shell pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while shell pasta is often cheaper.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and green bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms; cook until mushrooms are tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Drain excess fat from the skillet; stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste; simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture in a large bowl; mix well.

Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish; top with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens