Pizza Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining two beloved Italian-inspired favorites into one hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
This casserole takes the savory flavors of pizza—tangy tomato sauce, melty cheese, and favorite toppings—and marries them with al dente pasta to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
It’s like enjoying a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta simultaneously, without having to choose between the two!
What makes Pizza Pasta Casserole particularly appealing is its versatility and simplicity. You can customize it with your preferred pizza toppings, from classic pepperoni to vegetable medleys, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, often requiring less than 15 minutes of hands-on time before it goes into the oven. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or someone seeking comfort food that delivers on flavor without complicated techniques, this casserole checks all the boxes.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound (16 oz) pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti work best)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 3-4 oz pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to soften in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the meat and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
Pour the pizza sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the meat sauce mixture. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture. Add your optional toppings like mushrooms and olives, reserving some pepperoni for the top. Then cover with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown at the edges.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to portion. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pizza Pasta Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, add about 10 minutes to the covered baking time since you’ll be starting with a cold casserole.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Pizza Pasta Casserole freezes well. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts. You could also substitute with plant-based meat alternatives if desired.
5. What can I serve with Pizza Pasta Casserole?
This hearty dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light side helps balance the richness of the casserole.
CONCLUSION
Pizza Pasta Casserole brilliantly combines two beloved dishes into one satisfying meal that’s greater than the sum of its parts. Its appeal lies in both its delicious flavor profile and its practical advantages—it’s customizable, feeds a crowd, and provides excellent leftovers.
Next time you’re caught between craving pizza or pasta, remember that you don’t have to choose.
With this Pizza Pasta Casserole recipe in your culinary arsenal, you can enjoy the best of both worlds in one convenient, comforting dish that’s sure to become a regular request at your dinner table.
