Pizza Casserole

Pizza Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines all the flavors you love about pizza in an easy, baked pasta casserole. Loaded with savory sauce, melty cheese, your favorite toppings, and tender pasta, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes like pizza but feeds a crowd!
• Easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings.
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly.
• Great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
• Cheesy, saucy, and satisfying every time.

ingredients

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

• 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well)
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked bacon

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage with diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the pizza sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
6. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and pepperoni.
7. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese. Add extra toppings if desired.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 6–8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.
• Try different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for Pizza Casserole?

Short, sturdy pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni holds the sauce and toppings well.

Can I make Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready to serve.

Do I have to use meat?

Nope! Leave out the meat and load up on veggies for a vegetarian version.

Can I add extra toppings?

Definitely — add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, peppers, or cooked bacon.

What sauce should I use?

Pizza sauce or marinara sauce both work well.

Can I freeze Pizza Casserole?

Yes — freeze it before or after baking. Thaw and bake until hot and bubbly.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Don’t overcook the pasta and keep the casserole covered for the first part of baking.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, pizza-like flavors.

Can I use leftover pasta?

Sure — just make sure it’s not overcooked before adding it to the casserole.

What can I serve with Pizza Casserole?

It’s great with garlic bread and a simple side salad.

Conclusion

Pizza Casserole is an easy, cheesy comfort food that brings all your favorite pizza flavors to the dinner table in one satisfying bake. It’s simple, hearty, and endlessly customizable — perfect for feeding your family or a hungry crowd. Dig in and enjoy!

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