Pizza Casserole Recipe
Experience the flavors of Italy from the comfort of your dining table, with our delectable Pizza Casserole Recipe! This incredible dish takes all the elements of a pizza and transforms them into a warm gooey casserole masterpiece. Imagine layers of cooked penne pasta, seasoned ground beef or Italian sausage and an orchestra of melted mozzarella cheese. With every bite the delightful combination of cheesy flavors will dance on your palate while crispy pepperoni adds a crunch. Whether you're serving it up for a family gathering, potluck event or simply enjoying a night in this Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings the comforting essence of Italy directly to your plate. Get ready to relish a slice of Italy with each and every forkful!
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Servings: 6
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 9x13 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
To give this Pizza Casserole a gluten-free twist just replace the regular penne pasta with your preferred gluten-free penne or pasta alternative. Make sure that all the other ingredients, such, as seasoning, crushed tomatoes and toppings like pepperoni are certified gluten-free. This will allow you to relish every cheesy and savory mouthful of this comforting casserole without any concerns about related sensitivities. It's a variation, on a favorite that can be enjoyed by everyone!