Johnny Marzetti

Johnny Marzetti is a baked pasta dish, popular in the Midwestern United States, particularly in the state of Ohio. The dish is named after the Marzetti family, who owned and operated the Marzetti's Italian Restaurant in Columbus, Ohio during the early 20th century.

History

The dish was first served at the Marzetti's Italian Restaurant in the early 1920s. The restaurant was owned by Teresa Marzetti, an Italian immigrant who moved to Columbus in 1896. The dish was named after her brother-in-law, Johnny Marzetti. The restaurant was popular among Ohio State University students and the dish quickly gained popularity throughout the state.

Ingredients and Preparation

Johnny Marzetti is a casserole dish typically made with ground beef, tomato sauce, onions, and cheese. The dish is often served with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. The traditional recipe calls for elbow macaroni, but variations may use other types of pasta. The dish is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cultural Significance

Johnny Marzetti is considered a comfort food in Ohio and is often served at potlucks, church suppers, and family gatherings. The dish is also commonly served in school cafeterias throughout the state. In 2013, the dish was featured on the Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, further increasing its popularity.

Variations

There are many variations of Johnny Marzetti, with some recipes including additional ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Some versions also substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey.

See Also

• American cuisine
• Italian-American cuisine
• Casserole

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