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Pizza casserole brings together everything you love about classic pizza layered into a cozy baked pasta dish. It is a favorite at busy weeknight dinners because it uses crowd-pleasing flavors and pantry basics. This recipe has plenty of melty cheese and zesty pepperoni in every bite making it perfect for family-style meals or prepping ahead as a freezer meal. I remember how excited my kids were the first time I made it and now it is the go-to recipe for gatherings or comfort food cravings.
I started baking this casserole for school potlucks and it was always requested again the next year which is the real mark of a winner in my book.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: for hearty flavor and protein you can use a mix if you like
- Pepperoni: brings bold pizza character use classic or mini style and look for one with an even fat content for best baking
- Mozzarella cheese: for a gooey cheesy melt whole milk mozzarella gives the best stretch
- Crushed tomatoes: the base of the sauce choose San Marzano or another reputable brand for vibrant flavor
- Garlic salt: seasons the sauce quickly use fresh garlic if you want even more kick
- Italian seasoning: classic blend for that herby Italian taste check that it is fresh for the most aroma
- Penne pasta: holds onto sauce and cheese any strong tube pasta works but penne keeps structure well
- Parmesan cheese: gives a nutty sharp finish always grate fresh if you have time
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Meat:
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium heat break it up with a spatula and stir until browned and cooked through then drain off any grease so the casserole is not oily
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes Italian seasoning and garlic salt with the cooked meat let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook pasta in salted water just until al dente drain well so it stays firm and does not get mushy when baked
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half the cooked pasta in a greased 9x13 baking dish top evenly with half of the meat sauce then sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese next add a layer of pepperoni slices
- Repeat Layers:
- Add the rest of the pasta then the remaining sauce and cheese and finish with another layer of pepperoni
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the parmesan all over the top for extra savory flavor
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes then remove the foil and bake another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden at the edges
- Rest and Serve:
- Let it cool for 5 minutes so the pieces hold together before serving up big hearty scoops
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The best part for me is always the cheesy top layer that browns just right in the oven especially if you pile on a bit extra mozzarella near the end my youngest says the melty cheese is her favorite part and she always sneaks a few pepperonis while we layer it together
Storage Tips
Store leftovers tightly covered in the baking dish for up to 4 days in the refrigerator The flavors develop even more overnight so it is a great make-ahead meal For freezer storage let the casserole cool completely then wrap well in foil and a freezer bag Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating at 325 degrees covered in foil
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version You can make it vegetarian by swapping in sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers If you only have shredded cheese blends they work too but mozzarella will provide the most satisfying melt Look for nitrate-free or turkey pepperoni if you want a healthier twist
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your pizza casserole with a crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty garlic bread For a full-on pizza party vibe set out bowls of chopped olives sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños for everyone to add at the table It is also delicious with a scoop of marinara on the side for dipping
Cultural Context
Pizza-inspired casseroles are a classic American comfort food They reflect the way Italian American cuisine has evolved with lots of cheese bigger portions and easy prep for busy families This dish blends both pizza night and pasta night into one filling recipe that always draws the family to the kitchen
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use sausage instead of ground beef?
Yes, Italian sausage is an excellent substitute and adds more flavor. You can use ground beef, sausage, or a mix of both depending on your preference.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne is recommended for its sturdy shape, but you may also use rigatoni, fusilli, or ziti for a similar result.
- → Can this dish be made ahead and frozen?
Absolutely. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed when ready to enjoy.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta to al dente, so it remains slightly firm when baked and doesn't overcook in the oven.
- → Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions make tasty additions. Sauté veggies beforehand for best texture and flavor.