Pizza Casserole
Pizza Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that combines all your favorite pizza flavors in one cheesy, baked dish. Loaded with pasta, savory meat, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this comforting casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup cooked sausage slices optional
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms optional
- ½ cup sliced black olives optional
- ½ cup diced bell peppers optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with meat sauce.
- Transfer half of the mixture to the baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and toppings.
- Add remaining pasta mixture and top with remaining cheese, pepperoni, and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize toppings: Use your favorite pizza toppings—ham, bacon, onions, jalapeños, or pineapple.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Freezer friendly: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.
- Low-carb option: Substitute pasta with cauliflower florets.
- Extra cheesy: Add ricotta or provolone for richer texture.