Ultimate Pizza Casserole Recipe – A Cheesy & Hearty Family Favorite

Introduction

Are you searching for a dish that combines the comfort of home cooking with the irresistible flavors of your favorite pizza? Look no further than this Ultimate Pizza Casserole! This recipe is designed to be a one-stop solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Imagine all the delicious elements of a classic pizza—crispy pepperoni, savory sausage, melted cheese, and tangy sauce—baked into a golden, gooey casserole. It’s a game-changer for families and foodies alike.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip up this casserole with minimal effort. Plus, it’s customizable to suit any taste preference, dietary restriction, or seasonal ingredient availability. From classic pepperoni to vegetarian-friendly options, this casserole can be tailored to fit any dietary need without sacrificing flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy

This casserole is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you need a meal on the table fast. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious, homemade dinner that feels like a treat.

Customizable

Feel free to add or swap out toppings based on what you have on hand or what your family loves. Whether you prefer extra cheese, spicy sausage, or a variety of vegetables, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Planning ahead is a breeze with this recipe. You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh the next day. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it at your convenience.

Family Favorite

Even the pickiest eaters will find something to love about this casserole. The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese is universally appealing, and the familiar flavors of pizza make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini) 🍝: Penne is a great choice because its shape holds the sauce well, but rotini or any short pasta will work just as well.
• 1 lb ground beef 🥩: This provides a hearty, savory base for the casserole. You can use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference.
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled 🌭: Italian sausage adds a delicious, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices 🍕: Pepperoni is a must for that classic pizza taste. You can use regular or spicy pepperoni.
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled 🥓: Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element that takes the casserole to the next level.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅: Onions provide a sweet and savory depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄: Garlic is essential for adding that aromatic, pungent flavor that ties everything together.
• 1 (24 oz) jar of pizza sauce 🍅: A good-quality pizza sauce is key. You can use store-bought or make your own for even more flavor.
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained 🍅: Diced tomatoes add a fresh, tangy element to the sauce.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿: This blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme gives the casserole its authentic pizza flavor.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶: Add a bit of heat if you like spicy food. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀: Mozzarella is the star cheese in this casserole. It melts beautifully and provides that gooey, stretchy texture we all love.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀: Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth that complements the mozzarella.
• 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒: Olive oil is used to cook the meat and onions, adding a rich, fruity flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors in your dish. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced black olives 🫒: Olives add a salty, briny flavor that many pizza lovers enjoy.
• Chopped green bell peppers 🫑: Bell peppers provide a fresh, crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Mushrooms 🍄: If you’re a fan of mushrooms on your pizza, they’ll be a great addition to this casserole.
• Extra pepperoni 🍕: Never enough pepperoni, right? Feel free to add more if you’re a pepperoni enthusiast.
• Fresh basil 🌿: Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the whole dish.

Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil: Salting the water enhances the flavor of the pasta.
2. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it has a bit of bite, which is perfect for this casserole.
3. Drain and set aside: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly.

2: Cook the Meat

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat: Olive oil is a healthy fat that adds flavor to the meat.
2. Add ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onions, cooking until browned: Brown the meat and onions together to develop a rich, savory flavor. Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes: Garlic and Italian seasoning are essential for that authentic pizza flavor. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat if you like spicy food.
4. Drain excess grease: This step ensures the casserole isn’t too greasy and helps to keep the flavors balanced.

3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Pour in pizza sauce and diced tomatoes: The combination of pizza sauce and diced tomatoes creates a thick, flavorful base for the casserole.
2. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors: Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed.

4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C): Preheating the oven ensures it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
2. In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta and meat sauce: Mix the pasta and meat sauce together to ensure every bite is flavorful.
3. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese: Adding some cheese to the mixture ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
4. Spread evenly and top with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni slices: Layering the remaining cheese and toppings on top creates a beautiful, golden crust when baked.

5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes: Covering the casserole with foil ensures it bakes evenly without burning.
2. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden: Uncovering the casserole for the last few minutes allows the cheese to brown and become crispy on top.
3. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes it easier to cut and serve.

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Pro Tips for the Best Pizza Casserole

Use Fresh Cheese

Grate your own mozzarella for better melting. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Make it Spicy

Add extra red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a bit of heat. This is a great way to customize the dish to your family’s spice preferences.

Low-Carb Option

Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the guilt.

Variations

Vegetarian Pizza Casserole

Swap out the meat for extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. This version is just as delicious and packed with nutrients.

Supreme Pizza Casserole

Add olives, green peppers, and sausage for a full pizza experience. This variation is perfect for those who love a loaded pizza.

Hawaiian Style

Add ham and pineapple for a sweet and savory twist. This is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the casserole with a tropical flair.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days: Proper storage ensures the casserole stays fresh and flavorful.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe dish: Freezing allows you to save leftovers for future meals.

Reheating Instructions

• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Microwaving is quick and convenient, but be sure to check the temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Reheating in the oven ensures the casserole is heated evenly and maintains its texture.

FAQs

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prepping and ensures you have a delicious meal ready to go.

What’s the Best Pasta for This Recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best because it holds the sauce well. These shapes ensure that every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough Instead of Pasta?

Absolutely! Layer cooked pizza dough instead of pasta for a deep-dish pizza casserole. This is a fun and creative way to enjoy the dish with a different texture.

Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Pizza Casserole is the perfect comfort food for pizza lovers. With its cheesy layers, hearty meat sauce, and customizable toppings, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion! 🍕✨

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Servings: 6-8

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