Pizza Casserole Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing all the best parts of pizza and pasta together into one cozy, bubbly dish, then this Pizza Casserole is bound to become your next obsession. Hearty rotini, a meaty marinara, loads of gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoni layer together in the ultimate comfort bake that’s as family-friendly as it is wildly craveable. Every spoonful delivers that satisfying pizza flavor but with the heartiness of a casserole, making it a weeknight hero you’ll want to make on repeat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a handful of everyday ingredients, this dish transforms simple staples into a head-turning, flavor-packed meal. Each component plays a key role in achieving the perfect taste, irresistible textures, and those iconic pizza flavors you love.

• Uncooked rotini or penne pasta (12 oz): These sturdy pasta shapes grab onto the sauce and keep every bite satisfying.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory base note and helps create a glossy, flavorful sauce.
• Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 lb): The hearty, meaty base that makes the casserole so addictive; choose sausage for extra spice.
• Small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce as it sautés.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): For that irresistible aroma and classic Italian flavor.
• Marinara or pizza sauce (24 oz jar): Delivers rich tomato flavor and ties all the pizza elements together.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): An aromatic blend that boosts the classic pizzeria taste.
• Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little kick.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1½ cups): The star of the show for melty, stretchy cheesiness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Brings salty, nutty notes that deepen the cheese flavor.
• Sliced pepperoni (1 cup): Brings bold, classic pizza vibes with every bite.
• Sliced black olives (½ cup, optional): Offers a briny, savory pop—totally up to your taste buds.
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish: For a burst of freshness and vibrant color to finish.

How to Make Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get things nice and hot—this helps achieve that bubbly, golden cheese topping. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray to keep cleanup easy and serve those first scoops effortlessly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rotini or penne until just al dente, following the package instructions. Remember, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so you want it to stay pleasantly firm. Once cooked, drain and set aside—the rest comes together quickly!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about three minutes, until it’s soft and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, then add the ground beef or sausage. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, draining off any excess grease if needed. This builds a flavorful foundation for your Pizza Casserole.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the marinara or pizza sauce, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce simmer with the meat for three to five minutes so those bold flavors come together and the kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce, stirring everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Spread half the mixture into your prepared baking dish, then sprinkle over half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the rest of the pasta mixture, then finish with the remaining cheeses, plenty of pepperoni, and black olives if you like them. You’re about to witness true cheesy, pizza-inspired perfection!

Step 6: Bake and Garnish

Bake the uncovered casserole for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted into gorgeous golden pools. Let it rest for five minutes after baking to make serving neater and ensure everyone gets a perfect, cheesy slice. Scatter fresh basil or parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Serve Pizza Casserole

Garnishes

The finishing touch of fresh basil or parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor that brightens up each cheesy bite. For an extra flourish, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dusting of Parmesan right before serving gives it a true pizzeria feel.

Side Dishes

Since Pizza Casserole is wonderfully hearty, it pairs up perfectly with a simple green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. If you’re a bread lover, round out your meal with soft garlic breadsticks or warm, crusty Italian bread for next-level comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family-style dinner, let everyone top their own portions with extra pepperoni, olives, or fresh veggies. Alternatively, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a crowd-pleasing twist at parties. Pizza Casserole is totally customizable, so make it your own in playful ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days—the flavors get even deeper overnight, making lunch leftovers something to really look forward to.

Freezing

Want to stock your freezer with easy meals? Wrap cooled Pizza Casserole tightly in foil or store in airtight freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave until hot, or cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes. If things look a little dry, add a small splash of water or extra sauce to revive all that original sauciness.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta for this Pizza Casserole?

Definitely! While rotini and penne hold the sauce beautifully, you can substitute rigatoni, fusilli, or even ziti. Just aim for pasta shapes that have texture so the sauce and cheese cling to every piece.

What’s the best way to make this casserole vegetarian?

Skip the ground beef or sausage and bulk up the casserole with extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Meatless versions are incredibly flavorful and still deliver all the cheesy pizza magic.

Can I assemble Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole up to one day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the cook time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I make this casserole spicier?

Spice lovers can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or choose hot Italian sausage for extra heat. A drizzle of hot sauce before serving works great, too, if everyone in the family likes it spicy.

Are there easy ways to lighten up this dish?

For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and extra vegetables instead of pepperoni. It’s still hearty and delicious while sneaking in some extra nutrition in every scoop.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to dig into your own homemade Pizza Casserole! It’s the ultimate blend of gooey, cheesy, pizza-inspired comfort and family-friendly pasta night. Don’t hesitate to shake up the toppings or make it ahead for those busy evenings—once you try it, this casserole is sure to earn a regular spot at your table.

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