Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes
• A fun twist on traditional pizza with all the classic flavors
• Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Easily customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
• Great for feeding a family or a large group

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 20-25 pepperoni slices
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

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

2. Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.

4. Add Sauce and Seasoning

Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and optional veggies. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan, and pepperoni slices.

7. Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked sausage or bacon for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in some ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole (or unbaked) in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What’s the best pasta to use?

Penne and rotini work well, but you can use any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well.

4. Can I make this casserole without meat?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef or replace it with extra vegetables.

5. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella is best for that gooey, stretchy texture, but you can mix in cheddar or provolone.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover it with foil while baking if you prefer a softer texture.

7. Can I use homemade pizza sauce?

Yes, homemade pizza sauce adds a fresh, rich flavor to the dish.

8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the cheesy, pizza-like taste of this casserole.

9. Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Try olives, jalapeños, or extra cheese for more flavor.

10. What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic pizza in a hearty, baked pasta form. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just craving a comforting dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit! Try it out and customize it with your favorite toppings for the perfect homemade meal.