Pizza casserole is a delightful dish that combines all the beloved flavors of pizza into a comforting and easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this casserole is packed with pasta, savory ground beef, pepperoni, and lots of melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet Italian seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the pasta and meat sauce mixture. Add a layer of pepperoni slices, black olives, green bell pepper, and mushrooms if using. Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Conclusion
This pizza casserole is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the classic taste of pizza in a new form. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze pizza casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with pizza casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the meat sauce. Using a spicy tomato sauce or adding extra chili powder can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, spinach, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious pizza casserole with your friends and family! 🍕🧀
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!