The Green Lantern 15 Mile and Utica is a beloved upstate New York comfort food dish, featuring a hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all baked together with a crispy, cheesy top. It’s a satisfying, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The name comes from the Green Lantern restaurant in Utica, New York, where this dish was popularized, and it’s a staple of the region’s casual dining scene.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp (30 g) tomato paste
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp (5 g) dried oregano
- 1 tsp (5 g) dried basil
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) black pepper
- 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
- 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the meat sauce, and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup (115 g) of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Pasta texture: Cook the macaroni just to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Draining fat: After browning the ground beef, drain off the excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy. You can also use lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce fat.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking) up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the baking time since you’re starting from cold.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or steamed green beans. Crusty garlic bread is also a great accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce. It’s a complete meal on its own, but a side of roasted vegetables adds a nice touch.
Variations
- Spicy: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the meat sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 lb (450 g) of cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil, then proceed with the recipe.
- Cheese blend: Use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or add some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot throughout. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work well. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What is the Green Lantern restaurant? The Green Lantern was a popular restaurant in Utica, New York, known for its Italian-American dishes. This casserole is a tribute to their famous “15 Mile” dish, which was a hearty baked pasta with meat sauce.
Can I make this without the Parmesan? Absolutely. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, but you can omit it or replace it with extra cheddar cheese.
Is this dish spicy? No, the classic version is not spicy. It’s mild and family-friendly. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well. Since it’s leaner, you may need to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet when browning.
How do I know when it’s done? The casserole is done when it’s hot and bubbly throughout, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned. If you’re reheating a refrigerated casserole, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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