Cheesy Pizza Casserole

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Looking for a quick weeknight dinner that’s kid-approved, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy every craving? This cheesy pizza casserole recipe combines your favorite pizza toppings into one hearty, comforting pasta bake. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prep, or potlucks—and it might just become your new go-to comfort food

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Casserole

• Loaded with cheesy goodness and your favorite meats

• Easy to make ahead for busy weeknights

• Great for feeding a crowd or freezing for later

• Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings

• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Penne or Rotini Pasta (12 oz.) – A sturdy pasta base that holds sauce and cheese like a champ.

• Ground Beef (1 lb.) – Adds savory, meaty flavor and substance.

• Italian Sausage (1/2 lb., crumbled) – Brings bold, herby flavor with a slight kick.

• Pepperoni Slices (1/2 cup) – Classic pizza topping for that familiar, zesty bite.

• Cooked & Crumbled Bacon (1/2 cup) – Adds smoky crunch and rich flavor.

• Marinara or Pizza Sauce (2 cups) – Ties everything together with that classic tomato goodness.

• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp.) – A blend of herbs that gives it a true “pizza” taste.

• Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp.) – Adds depth and a little aromatic kick.

• Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp., optional) – For a spicy edge, if you like it hot.

• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The melty, stretchy star of the show.

• Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded) – Adds a touch of sharpness and color.

• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated) – Gives a salty, umami-rich finish on top

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh-grated cheese for better melt and flavor.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for extra nutrition.

• Double the recipe and freeze half for future meals.

• Want crispier pepperoni? Add a few extra slices on top before baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, spinach, and black olives.

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or use hot Italian sausage.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or Italian salad pairs beautifully.

• Garlic Bread: Classic and irresistible.

• Red Wine: Try a Chianti or Pinot Noir.

• Iced Tea or Soda: Great non-alcoholic options for casual dinners.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

Popular Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Wrap it in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What type of pasta works best?
Penne and rotini hold sauce well, but any short pasta like ziti or rigatoni works too.

How can I make it healthier?
Use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and add veggies like spinach or zucchini.

Cheesy Pizza Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, meaty mashup of your favorite pizzeria flavors and classic pasta comfort. Loaded with ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and bacon, all tossed with pasta and pizza sauce, then baked under a melty blanket of cheese—it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta, cooked al dente

• 1 lb ground beef, browned

• ½ lb Italian sausage, crumbled and cooked

• ½ cup pepperoni slices

• ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped or crumbled

• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce (choose high-quality for best flavor)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

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2. Prepare the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

3. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Mix It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Cooked pasta

• Meat mixture

• Pepperoni slices

• Crumbled bacon

• Marinara sauce

• Italian seasoning

• Garlic powder

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix until fully incorporated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top evenly with:

• Mozzarella cheese

• Cheddar cheese

• Parmesan cheese

6. Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving

Notes

• Feel free to use homemade marinara for a more personal touch.

• Spice levels can be adjusted to taste.

• This recipe scales easily for larger gatherings or parties.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

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