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Pizza Casserole Recipe

Pizza Casserole Recipe

4.8 from 15 reviews

A comforting and delicious twist on traditional pizza, this Pizza Casserole combines pasta, savory meat sauce, gooey cheese, and classic pizza toppings baked to perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 oz uncooked rotini or penne pasta

Meat Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheese and Toppings:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the meat sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil, then add garlic and meat, cooking until browned. Stir in sauce and seasonings.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, then layer it in the baking dish with cheeses, pepperoni, and olives.
  5. Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
  6. Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

  • Customize with your favorite toppings like mushrooms, green peppers, or cooked bacon.
  • For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra veggies.

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