Pizza Casserole – If you’re, in the mood for an Italian-inspired meal look no further than our Pizza Casserole Recipe. This crowd-pleasing casserole brings together all the flavors of a pizza in one satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with penne pasta, seasoned ground beef (or Italian sausage) gooey mozzarella cheese and a rich tomato sauce this recipe has become a family favorite that always leaves us wanting seconds.
I still remember the first time I whipped up this Pizza Casserole for my loved ones. The enticing smell of seasoning and bubbling cheese filled the kitchen as it baked to perfection in the oven. As I served it to my husband and child their excitement was palpable. With every mouthful they took their smiles got wider and wider until they devoured every bit from the casserole dish. It quickly became a recipe, in our household.
What makes this Pizza Casserole truly special?
Our Pizza Casserole Recipe offers the best of both worlds. Convenience and incredible flavor. By combining the taste of pizza into a hearty casserole. And what’s great is that you can customize it according to your preferences; whether you prefer sausage or ground beef want to add some veggies of your choice or prepare it ahead of time for those evenings – this recipe has got you covered! This delightful dish is not just a hit, with a group. It also provides a sense of comfort and satisfaction. It’s a choice for family get-togethers, potluck events or when you crave the flavors of Italy in your own home. The best part is that the leftovers are equally scrumptious making it a practical and mouthwatering addition, to your collection of recipes.
What You Need To Make This Pizza Casserole Recipe?
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: For the heart of this recipe you have the option to choose between ground beef or zesty Italian sausage. It’s a way to customize the flavor based on your mood. Personally I’m a fan of the depth that Italian sausage brings. Either choice will surely satisfy your cravings.
Pepperoni: When it comes to pepperoni don’t hold back on quality here; it really steals the show! Opt for premium slices that become crispy and curl up during baking adding a crunch, to every bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is what holds everything together creating a blanket of melty goodness over the casserole. If you’re a cheese lover feel free to be extra generous. There’s no such thing as much cheese in my opinion!
Crushed Tomatoes: To create a sauce with mouthwatering flavors that infuse every layer simply combine crushed tomatoes with garlic salt and Italian seasoning. It’s like having an ingredient that elevates the dish.
Penne Pasta: When cooking penne pasta for this recipe make sure to cook it al dente. This is because it will continue cooking as the casserole bakes. Think of it as pasta, with a purpose!
Parmesan Cheese: Finally don’t forget about Parmesan cheese! It adds that touch of goodness that completes the dish. Sprinkle it generously on the surface. You’ll be delighted, with a golden crust that’s absolutely flawless.
Steps To Make Pizza Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a skillet cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) until browned and then drain any grease.
Step 3: Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning and garlic salt to the skillet. Stir everything together. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Step 4: While that’s simmering, cook the penne pasta according to the instructions, on the package. Aim for al dente, where the pasta’s firm but not overly cooked since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 5: Once cooked drain the pasta and evenly spread half of it in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 6: Spoon half of the meat mixture over the layer of pasta.
Step 7: Evenly distribute half of the Mozzarella cheese on top of the meat layer.
Step 8: Arrange half of the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
Step 9: Repeat these layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, cheese and pepperoni.
Step 10: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over everything in the dish.
Step 11: Cover with foil. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, for 30 minutes.
Step 12: Afterward remove foil. Continue baking for another 15 minutes or until you see bubbles forming in the casserole and golden brown cheese on top.
Step 13: Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tip:
Before you bake your Pizza Casserole it’s important to let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes once you’ve layered all the ingredients. This brief period of waiting allows the pasta to soak up some of the sauce ensuring that every bite is bursting with that pizza flavor. Additionally, it helps prevent the casserole from becoming overly watery resulting in a dish, with a balance of flavors and textures. Remember, taking the time to be patient pays off when you’re aiming for the outcome, in your casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different pasta shapes for this casserole?
Sure! You are not limited to penne; feel free to experiment with pasta shapes that you enjoy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s perfectly fine to prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve adjusting the baking time slightly if it’s still cold, from being refrigerated.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Certainly! Adding bell peppers, mushrooms or onions is a way to elevate the flavors of this casserole while also incorporating some delicious vegetables into the mix.
Pizza Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian Sausage
- 6 ounces pepperoni
- 3 cups Mozzarella cheese
- 28 ounces can of crushed tomatoes or 2 15-ounce cans of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by browning one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet making sure to drain any grease.
- Next combine a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, one teaspoon of salt and one tablespoon of seasoning with the cooked meat. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- While the sauce simmers cook 16 ounces of penne pasta until it is firm but not fully cooked (al dente). Drain the pasta afterward.
- In a baking dish measuring 9×13 inches create layers using half of the pasta followed by half of the meat sauce. Then add half of the three cups of Mozzarella cheese and half of the six ounces of pepperoni.
- Repeat this layering process with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, cheese and pepperoni.
- Sprinkle a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish, with foil. Bake at 350°F, for 30 minutes. After that time period has passed, remove the foil. Continue baking for 15 minutes until it turns golden brown and becomes bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for five minutes before serving. Enjoy your Pizza Casserole!
Notes
