Pizza Casserole combines the flavors of a classic pizza with the comforting heartiness of a baked pasta dish. This layered delight is perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your family’s cravings for something cheesy, saucy, and utterly irresistible. With layers of seasoned meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and tender penne pasta, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
This recipe is as customizable as it is delicious. Whether you prefer ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both, the result is sure to please. You can also add your favorite pizza toppings, like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers, to make it your own. Easy to prepare and packed with classic Italian flavors, Pizza Casserole is a go-to comfort food that delivers big on taste and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Pizza Meets Pasta: All the flavors of pizza combined with the comfort of a baked pasta casserole.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 6 ounces pepperoni
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese
• One 28-ounce can (or two 15-ounce cans) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 16 ounces penne pasta
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked.
2. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a pot, combine the crushed tomatoes, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning.
2. Add the cooked meat to the tomato mixture.
3. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Drain the pasta well.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta.
3. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and arrange half of the pepperoni slices over the sauce.
5. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
1. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer.
Step 6: Bake
1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Serve warm, and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness!
Tips
• Enhance the Flavor: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added depth.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in some ricotta or cream cheese for an even creamier casserole.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
Pizza Casserole is a delightful fusion of two favorites, bringing the best of pizza and pasta together in one dish. Easy to make and loved by all, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and again!
