If you are craving a meal that perfectly combines the comforting goodness of Italian flavors in an easy, family-friendly dish, the Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. This casserole is a delightful fusion where cheesy, saucy pasta meets the beloved toppings of a classic pizza, baked to bubbling perfection. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bringing everyone together with its irresistible aromas and satisfying taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating this mouthwatering Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish a standout on any dinner table.
- 1 lb penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto sauce and cheese, providing a hearty base.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds rich, savory depth and protein to satisfy any appetite.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni: Brings a classic pizza flavor and a bit of spice for excitement.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The vibrant tomato sauce keeps everything moist and bursting with Italian zest.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy indulgence everyone loves.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty accent that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Offers a hint of classic Italian herbiness to tie all the flavors together.
How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Pasta
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside; this will form the comforting core of your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains, then carefully drain any excess fat to keep the dish flavorful but not greasy. This step creates the hearty foundation for your casserole’s filling.
Step 3: Combine Beef with Pepperoni and Marinara Sauce
Add the sliced pepperoni and marinara sauce directly into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This bubbling blend of sauce, beef, and pepperoni infuses each bite with classic pizza taste that’s rich and irresistible.
Step 4: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce Mixture
Now, add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet and stir well to coat every piece of pasta evenly with the saucy, meaty mixture. This ensures every forkful bursts with flavor from the inside out, making it the perfect pizza and pasta harmony.
Step 5: Assemble and Add Cheese Toppings
Transfer this delicious pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. The cheese melt during baking creates a golden, bubbly crust that is as beautiful as it is tasty.
Step 6: Season and Bake
Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano evenly over the cheese layer to enhance the aroma and add a fresh herbal kick. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted through, golden, and invitingly bubbly on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve up neat, comforting portions that everyone will love.
How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a touch of freshness and color by garnishing the casserole with chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving. This simple addition brightens the dish visually and adds a lively herbal note that perfectly balances the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread or crunchy breadsticks make fantastic accompaniments, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and completing the meal with delightful textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini baking dishes. You can also sprinkle extra pepperoni or add olives on top before baking for a personalized pizza-inspired flair. This makes the meal feel extra special, whether it’s a family dinner or casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors improve with time as they meld, making for even tastier lunches or dinners the next day.
Freezing
This Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully! Assemble and bake it first, then allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep or busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese refizzes. You can cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out, removing it in the last few minutes to restore that golden, bubbly top. This method keeps the dish moist and delicious every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended for its shape, you can substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or even macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and pepperoni and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can boost protein with plant-based meat substitutes or extra cheese if desired.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
If you want a different flavor twist, try a spicy arrabbiata sauce, a creamy tomato basil sauce, or even a homemade pizza sauce. Each will add a unique touch to your Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe.
How do I make sure the cheese melts evenly?
Sprinkling the cheeses in even layers and baking the casserole uncovered helps the cheese melt evenly and develop that irresistible bubbly golden crust. Using freshly grated cheese also melts better compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe a try because it’s one of those comforting dishes that feels like a homemade hug from the inside out. It’s easy, versatile, and bursting with deliciousness that will quickly become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
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Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Pizza Pasta Casserole combines the best of two beloved dishes into one hearty, cheesy bake. Featuring penne pasta, savory ground beef, pepperoni, marinara sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a comforting family meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that combines rich Italian flavors with the convenience of a one-dish bake.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
Meats
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
Sauces & Seasonings
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare the rest of the casserole.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Pepperoni and Sauce: Stir the sliced pepperoni and marinara sauce into the browned beef. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir thoroughly so each piece is coated in the sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano over the cheese layer to enhance flavor and aroma.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted, is bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set and for easier slicing.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the oregano and garlic powder.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms sautéed with the beef for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
