Description
Pizza Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner mashup — combining all the flavors of your favorite pizza with the comfort and ease of a baked pasta dish. It’s cheesy, saucy, packed with pepperoni (or your favorite toppings), and super family-friendly. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead!
Ingredients
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12 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
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1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pizza sauce
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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20–30 slices pepperoni (or more to taste)
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Optional toppings: chopped olives, mushrooms, green peppers, cooked bacon, etc.
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente (1–2 minutes under package time). Drain and set aside. -
Make the meat sauce:
In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage with diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–5 minutes. -
Assemble the casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and 1 cup mozzarella. Pour into the prepared casserole dish. -
Top it off:
Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and arrange pepperoni and other toppings over the top. -
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Cool slightly and serve garnished with chopped basil or parsley.
Notes
Use turkey sausage for a leaner option. This casserole freezes well — just bake and cool, then freeze in portions. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding sautéed veggies. A true crowd-pleaser for pizza night, potlucks, or meal prepping!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes