Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe

If you’ve never tried a hearty, comforting casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat with this Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe. It’s a dish that layers tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, ground beef, gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce — all baked together until bubbly and perfectly golden. I absolutely love how this turns out every single time, and I can’t wait to share it with you so you can bring this fan-freaking-tastic classic to your own dinner table.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe come together in harmony — pasta, flavorful meats, fresh veggies, and cheeses that melt beautifully. I always recommend grabbing Italian sausage that’s nicely seasoned, and fresh mushrooms if you can, they really elevate the texture.

• Elbow macaroni or egg noodles: I like elbow macaroni here because it holds sauce well and delivers that classic comfort-food bite.
• Olive oil: For sautéing veggies — it adds a nice fruitiness rather than a heavy flavor.
• White onion: Gives the base a sweet, aromatic depth once softened.
• Green bell pepper: Adds freshness and a little crunch that pairs well with the meat.
• Italian sausage: I love the seasoning this adds — choose sweet or spicy depending on your preference.
• Ground beef: Classic comfort food protein that balances out the sausage.
• Crimini mushrooms: These mushrooms have a deeper flavor than button mushrooms and melt into the dish so nicely.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must — it packs a punch of warmth and aroma.
• Italian seasoning: A blend that really pulls the flavors together with herbs like basil and oregano.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning — taste as you go!
• Red chili flakes: Just a little bit for a subtle kick, but you can leave it out if you prefer milder flavors.
• Tomato sauce: The rich base of the sauce to tie everything together.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a fresh burst in each bite.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, stretchy and gooey — who doesn’t love that?
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful, it complements the mozzarella and adds bite.

Variations

I love how versatile this Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tried a few fun twists depending on what’s in my fridge or my mood, and I encourage you to do the same. Playing with flavors keeps the dish exciting!

• Vegetable Boost: I sometimes toss in chopped zucchini, carrots, or spinach to sneak in more veggies — and my family never even notices! It’s a great way to get that extra color and nutrition without sacrificing taste.
• Cheese Swap: Using pepper jack instead of cheddar adds a lovely, spicy melty layer — perfect for those who like a bit of a kick.
• Meat Variations: If Italian sausage isn’t your thing, try ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version that still packs lots of flavor.
• Make It Spicy: If you want to turn up the heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. I learned this trick the hard way when my family asked for more zip!

How to Make Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil — salt helps flavor the pasta from the inside out. Cook your elbow macaroni just until al dente, which usually means about 2 minutes less than the package suggests. You want the pasta firm because it will soften more during baking. After draining, rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables for Flavor

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and aroma starts to fill your kitchen — seriously, this smell will have you hooked already. Softening these veggies first gives the casserole a sweet and fresh flavor base.

Step 3: Brown the Meats

Add the Italian sausage and ground beef right on top of the softened veggies. Using a wooden spoon, break the meat into small pieces as it cooks evenly until no pink remains. This step builds the savory backbone of the dish. I usually drain some excess fat here if it feels too greasy, but leaving a little fat helps keep everything juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Add Mushrooms, Garlic, and Seasonings

Next, stir in the sliced crimini mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their earthy goodness. Then add the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook just about 30 seconds more — you’re looking for the scent of the garlic and herbs to blossom, not to burn. This mix gives the casserole its layered Italian-inspired flavor.

Step 5: Make the Tomato Sauce Base

Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine everything well. Let this simmer gently for 2-3 minutes while stirring often, so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just a bit. By the end of this step, your kitchen will smell like you’re dining in an Italian trattoria!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Remove the skillet from the heat, then fold in the cooked pasta and half of the shredded cheese. Keep folding until the cheese melts and blends smoothly through the sauce and pasta — it’s a magical moment when everything becomes creamy and lush. This helps bind your casserole nicely once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese all over the top — the cheese topping melts into a golden crust that’s irresistible. Bake uncovered for about 35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown around the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes afterward; this step makes it easier to cut and helps those flavors to settle just right.

How to Serve Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly minced parsley on top right before serving — it adds a splash of color and a fresh herbal note. Sometimes, a light dusting of grated Parmesan on each plate takes the cheese experience to the next level. You could also add a drizzle of good olive oil or even a few fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands strong as a one-dish meal, but I love pairing it with a crisp garden salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm rolls are fantastic for dipping and soaking up every last bit of sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli add a nice texture contrast and make it a well-rounded dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or potlucks, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with fresh basil leaves — everyone gets their own personal-sized portion and it feels a little more elegant. You could even add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese right at the table for a fun DIY garnish bar!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for 3-4 days — I find it makes for incredible next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid freezer burn. When I freeze it, I like to portion it out so I can thaw just what I need.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven until warmed through — usually 2-3 minutes in the microwave or 20 minutes in a 350°F oven. Adding a little sprinkle of water before reheating in the oven helps keep the casserole moist. It tastes just as delicious the second or third time around, which is why this recipe is a keeper!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Johnny Marzetti Casserole with Italian Sausage Recipe has become one of those dishes I cook when I want my family to sit down, breathe deep, and savor something truly comforting. It’s layered with flavors and textures that remind me of cozy gatherings, easy-going weekends, and the magic of home cooking. You’ll enjoy how reliably delicious and user-friendly it is — trust me, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. So grab your skillet and get ready for a dish that will have your family going crazy for every last bite!

Print