Pizza Casserole

Introduction

Pizza Casserole is the ultimate mash-up of two beloved comfort foods: baked pasta and classic pepperoni pizza. Originating likely in the American Midwest during the mid-20th century as a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing dinner, this dish delivers all the savory flavors of a perfect slice without the hassle of making dough. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a hearty meal that the entire family will devour. This recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to become a regular fixture in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
1 pound (450g) Italian sausage or lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces (680g) jar marinara or pizza sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 ounces (225g) penne or rotini pasta
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (50g) sliced pepperoni, plus extra for topping
Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-step Preparation

Preheat and Prep Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until it is al dente (slightly firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Tip: Undercooking the pasta slightly ensures it doesn’t get mushy when baked in the sauce.
Sauté Meat and Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage or ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and oregano, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well to combine. Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the cooked pasta, the 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni, and 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Arrange the extra pepperoni slices on top of the cheese layer.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned around the edges. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: If you want extra crispy pepperoni, switch the oven to broiler mode for the last 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Nutritional Information

While nutritional facts vary widely based on the type of meat and cheese used, a typical serving (assuming 8 servings per casserole) contains approximately 450–550 calories, 30g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates. This casserole is an excellent source of protein and calcium, offering sustained energy. To make it slightly healthier, use lean ground beef or turkey sausage and opt for reduced-fat mozzarella.

Storage

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20 minutes), or use a microwave for individual servings.

Conclusion

This Pizza Casserole is a delightful, hearty meal that captures the essence of a Friday night pizza party. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette and a side of crusty garlic bread to complete the experience. Feel free to customize your toppings—add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy this simple slice of heaven!