Why Make This Recipe
Pizza lovers, rejoice! This Best Pizza Casserole Ever is a delightful twist on two favorites: pizza and casserole. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and brings all the comforting goodness of pizza right into a warm, cheesy dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or any occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
How to Make Best Pizza Casserole Ever
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is cooked through.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, cooked pasta, pepperoni, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Best Pizza Casserole Ever
Serve this delicious pizza casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a fun twist, let everyone add their favorite toppings to their individual servings, like extra cheese, olives, or fresh herbs.
How to Store Best Pizza Casserole Ever
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Best Pizza Casserole Ever
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- If you prefer a bit more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole! Try using different types of cheese, like gouda or parmesan, or replace pepperoni with sausage, ham, or even veggies for a meat-free version. You can also switch up the pasta shape to whatever you have on hand.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, you can use turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of ground beef.
Can I freeze the pizza casserole?
- Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
How long does it take to cook?
- The total cooking time is about 30-35 minutes – 10-15 to prepare and 20-25 to bake.
This Best Pizza Casserole Ever is an easy and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!
Best Pizza Casserole Ever
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 oz rotini pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- 1 small onion, chopped Provides flavor and texture.
Sauce and Toppings
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- 1 cup pepperoni slices Can replace with sausage or other desired toppings.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For rich cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For extra flavor.
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances the Italian flavor of the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is cooked through.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, cooked pasta, pepperoni, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.