Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best flavors of a classic pizza in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing baked dish. With layers of pasta, savory meat, melty cheese, and rich tomato sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family. It’s customizable, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy your pizza cravings without the fuss of making dough.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (such as penne or rotini)ground beef or Italian sausagetomato or pizza sauceoniongarlicmozzarella cheesesliced pepperonigrated Parmesan cheeseolive oilItalian seasoningsaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Add ground beef or sausage, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in the tomato or pizza sauce and simmer for a few minutes.

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and Parmesan cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap pepperoni with cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for different meat options.

Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a veggie-packed version.

Use a spicy marinara or add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Try a white pizza sauce for a different flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try cheddar, provolone, or a blend for variety.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and add extra vegetables or use a plant-based meat substitute.

What pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds up well in baking.

Can I add extra sauce?

Of course! If you like it saucier, add another cup of tomato sauce.

Do I have to pre-cook the pasta?

Yes, the pasta needs to be cooked before mixing with the sauce.

Is this good for kids?

Definitely! It’s cheesy, flavorful, and fun—just like pizza.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two baking dishes or a larger pan for feeding a crowd.

How long will it stay good?

Up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Pizza Casserole is a delicious, easy, and versatile meal that brings all the joy of pizza in a family-friendly baked dish. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a warm, cheesy, satisfying meal every time.

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