There’s something utterly satisfying about the combination of pasta, savory meat, and gooey cheese bubbling up under a crispy layer of pepperoni. I discovered this Easy Pizza Casserole on a night when all I craved was the comfort of pizza but none of the effort of making dough. Life is busy, and sometimes I just want to sink my fork into something hearty without the hassle. This dish brings together the best of pizza and pasta, creating a comforting meal that blends flavors in perfect harmony.
With just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this casserole turns a simple dinner into a warm, family-friendly feast. It has quickly become a go-to whenever I’m looking to delight my loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. So, if you’re ready to trade fast food in for a homemade experience that doesn’t skimp on flavor, let’s dive right into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!
Why is Easy Pizza Casserole a Must-Try?
Comforting and satisfying, this dish combines the classic flavors of pizza with hearty pasta and savory meats, making it perfect for family gatherings. Effortless to prepare, you’ll have this casserole ready in just 30 minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than cooking. Versatile in ingredients, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses. Kid-approved, even the pickiest eaters will love the gooey mozzarella and crispy pepperoni topping. For an extra twist, consider trying it with a side of garlic bread for a complete dinner experience!
Easy Pizza Casserole Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
• ½ cup onion diced – a flavor base that sweetens as it cooks.
• 1 clove garlic crushed – adds a fragrant punch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps sauté and adds richness.
• 1 lb ground beef – brings heartiness to the dish.
• 1 lb Italian sausage ground – infuses traditional Italian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings – enhances the overall taste with a hint of herbs.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – complements the pizza theme with its aromatic flair.
• 1 teaspoon salt – boosts all the flavors in your casserole.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – adds a light kick to the sauce.
For the Sauces
• 24 oz pizza sauce – the heart of your Easy Pizza Casserole, ensuring a pizza-like flavor.
• 8 oz tomato sauce – helps to thicken the mixture and heighten taste.
For the Pasta
• 1 lb pasta rotini – perfect for holding onto that cheesy sauce!
• ½ cup milk – makes the cheese extra creamy when blended in.
For the Topping
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese shredded – because more cheese means more delight!
• 24 pepperoni slices – a crispy and savory finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Pizza Casserole
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Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and crushed garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Brown: Next, add the ground beef and Italian sausage into the skillet. Cook until both are thoroughly browned, stirring to break them up, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
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Season: Stir in the Italian seasonings, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let these flavors combine for an additional 2-3 minutes, making your kitchen smell like an Italian pizzeria.
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Simmer: Pour in the pizza sauce and tomato sauce. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to meld together beautifully.
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Boil: While your sauce is simmering, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside.
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Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with your hearty meat sauce. Add the milk and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Transfer: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish evenly, ensuring every corner is filled with that cheesy goodness.
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Top: Lay the pepperoni slices over the top of your casserole, like a delicious blanket, and pop it in the oven.
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Bake: Bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with delicious edges starting to brown.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Pizza Casserole Variations & Substitutions
Customize this casserole to suit your cravings and pantry with these fun twists and swaps!
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef and sausage for 1 pound of veggie crumbles or a mix of your favorite vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers. This adds color and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta, making this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. You can find various options that hold up well in baking.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a heat boost, giving your casserole an exciting twist that spice lovers will appreciate.
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Creamy Twist: Incorporate a block of cream cheese into the cheese mixture for a richer texture. It creates a wonderfully creamy experience that elevates every bite.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or parsley before baking for a vibrant aroma and fresh flavor. This is a simple way to give your casserole a garden-fresh touch.
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Cheese Variety: Try replacing mozzarella with a blend of cheddar and pepper jack for a spicy flavor profile. A mix of cheeses not only enhances flavor but also adds delightful texture variations.
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Topping Swap: Instead of pepperoni, use cooked bacon bits or even sliced olives for a different flair. This small change can redefine the overall taste of your casserole.
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More Veggies: Add spinach or kale into the pasta mixture for an extra nutritional punch. They’ll blend seamlessly into the dish while adding vibrant color and nutrients.
What to Serve with Easy Pizza Casserole?
There’s nothing like creating a well-rounded meal that takes your Easy Pizza Casserole to the next level.
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Garlic Bread: A classic partner, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy goodness of your casserole.
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Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine lettuce and the tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You won’t be able to resist the added zing!
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious touch and its subtle bitterness balances out the cheesy flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens!
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant adds great texture and natural sweetness, enhancing the Italian theme.
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Italian-Style Coleslaw: This vibrant slaw, dressed with olive oil and vinegar, is light yet satisfying—perfect for cutting through the richness of the casserole.
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Red Wine: A glass of Chianti harmonizes wonderfully with the savory meat and tangy sauce, elevating your dining experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, gooey chocolate chip cookies offer a delightful sweetness that rounds out your meal perfectly.
Each of these pairings adds something special, ensuring your Easy Pizza Casserole is part of a memorable dining experience!
Expert Tips for Easy Pizza Casserole
• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
• Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is classic, mixing in provolone or cheddar adds more depth of flavor. Just be sure to adjust portions to keep it balanced.
• Avoid Overcooking: Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing with the sauce; overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the casserole.
• Bubbling Goodness: For that perfect golden top, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
• Make Ahead: This Easy Pizza Casserole can be prepared in advance! Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking—dinner has never been easier!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Pizza Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe dish wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until heated through, making sure to cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch option, ensuring your Easy Pizza Casserole remains just as delightful as when first made.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Easy Pizza Casserole ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can make the meat sauce and cook the pasta up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, brown the ground beef and sausage, and then stir in the sauces and seasonings as directed. Once everything is combined, let it cool slightly before refrigerating. On the day you plan to serve it, just mix in the cooked pasta, milk, and cheese—then transfer it to the baking dish, top it with pepperoni, and bake at 350°F until bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors without the last-minute rush!
Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Easy Pizza Casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, look for firm onions and garlic with no blemishes. For the meat, fresh ground beef and sausage should have a bright pink color, while cheese should be fresh and not past its expiration date.
How should I store leftovers of the Easy Pizza Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure the casserole is cooled completely before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can soggy up your delicious meal!
Can I freeze the Easy Pizza Casserole?
Yes! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes, covered with foil to prevent burning.
What should I do if my pasta is overcooked?
Don’t worry! If you accidentally overcook your pasta, your casserole could turn out mushy. To avoid this, make sure to cook the rotini just until al dente—about 8-10 minutes, depending on brand. If you do end up with overcooked pasta, I recommend adding an extra layer of cheese and a few additional toppings to enhance the dish.
Does this recipe contain common allergens?
Yes, the Easy Pizza Casserole contains gluten (from the pasta) and dairy (from cheese and milk). If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese as excellent alternatives while still keeping the dish creamy and delicious.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten it up, consider swapping out half the ground beef with lentils or black beans for more fiber. You can also add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach when cooking your meat sauce, enhancing both nutrients and flavor!
Easy Pizza Casserole Everyone Will Love in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and crushed garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage into the skillet. Cook until both are thoroughly browned, stirring to break them up, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasonings, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let these flavors combine for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the pizza sauce and tomato sauce. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with your hearty meat sauce. Add the milk and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until well blended and creamy.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish evenly.
- Lay the pepperoni slices over the top of your casserole and pop it in the oven.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.