Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. I’m talking about that dish you crave on a chilly evening, the one that brings the whole family running to the table. Think lasagna, but make it pizza. That’s what this **pizza casserole** is all about! It’s got all the cheesy, saucy goodness of your favorite pizza, but layered into a simple, satisfying casserole that even the busiest weeknight can handle. Seriously, if you love pizza and you love easy dinners, this is your new best friend. I swear, I make this at least twice a month; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and so much easier than ordering takeout! Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have hanging out in the fridge. I always seem to have half an onion or a few stray bell peppers that are just begging to be added to this.
What is a pizza casserole?
Think of pizza casserole as deconstructed pizza in baking dish form. It’s essentially layers of pizza flavor – a base of some kind (pasta, biscuits, or even bread), a rich tomato sauce, your favorite pizza toppings, and, of course, loads of melted cheese. It’s ridiculously easy to assemble, totally customizable to your taste, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The beauty of pizza casserole lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up. It’s forgiving, flexible, and designed for busy weeknights when you just want something comforting and delicious without a lot of fuss. It’s like giving pizza a cozy, comforting hug in a casserole dish!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me tell you, this isn’t just any casserole; it’s a game-changer! What I love most about this **pizza casserole** is that it tastes *incredible*. We’re talking seriously cheesy, saucy, and packed with all your favorite pizza flavors. But more than that, it’s unbelievably easy to make. Seriously, you can throw this together in about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven. It’s a lifesaver on those nights when you’re short on time and energy.
And let’s not forget the cost-effectiveness! What ingredients do you have on hand to make this recipe? What is a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank? What’s a great way to use up leftover marinara? What is hiding in the fridge?
The versatility is unmatched. What are some good side dishes to serve as a main course? Is it perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in? Is it cold the next day? Is it similar to a baked ziti? I’ve even made mini versions in muffin tins for a fun party appetizer. What is a good recipe for all occasions?
How do you make a pizza casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this **pizza casserole** is honestly a breeze. You’ll basically cook your pasta (if you’re using pasta), layer it with your favorite pizza toppings, smother it in sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The best part? It’s super flexible! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. This isn’t a fussy recipe; it’s designed for real life, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Ingredients
For the Base:
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape) – I usually use penne because it holds the sauce so well! Make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
* Alternatively, you can use a can of refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into pieces, or even cubed bread for a different texture.
For the Sauce:
* 24 ounces pizza sauce – Use your favorite store-bought brand or even homemade! I love using Rao’s, but any decent pizza sauce will do the trick. * 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds that classic Italian flavor. * 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Because everything is better with garlic!
For the Toppings:
* 1 pound ground Italian sausage, cooked and drained – You can also use ground beef, pepperoni, or ham. Any other cooked meat you like? I sometimes mix in a little ground turkey to lighten it up. * 1 cup sliced pepperoni – Adds that classic pizza flavor! * 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Adds a nice crunch and freshness. Can you use other veggies like onions, mushrooms, or black olives? * 1/2 cup sliced black olives – Adds salty, briny flavor. * 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The star of the show! What is the best way to make mozzarella for a cheese melt? Can you add other cheeses like Parmesan or Provolone?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually spray it with non-stick cooking spray to make sure nothing sticks. This is super important for easy cleanup later!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta (If Using)
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well. Why don’t you put soggy pasta in your casserole? If you are using biscuits, prepare them as directed on the package, usually cutting them into small pieces. What are quarters? For bread, cube it and lightly toast in the oven or in a pan with some olive oil.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the pizza sauce, oregano, and garlic powder. This is your flavor base, so make sure it’s well mixed!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
If using pasta, add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well to coat. If using biscuits or bread, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish. If you have a large pan, place the whole pan on top. Top with half of the cooked sausage, pepperoni, green bell pepper, and black olives. Sprinkle with half of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers with remaining pasta/biscuits/bread, sausage, pepperoni, green bell pepper, black pepper. Top with arugula What are the best olives, mozzarella cheese, and Make sure you end with a generous layer of cheese!
Step 5: Bake
If the cheese is melted and bubbly in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top layer of cheese has risen. Remove from the oven and cool. When a casserole is heated through, it will cook Keep an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn! If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
Step 6: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help it hold its shape a bit better. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 7: Garnish (Optional)
Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation, if desired. When you feel fancy, why? A little goes a long way!
What should I serve it with?
This **pizza casserole** is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it’s also great served with a simple side salad. For breakfast (yes, cold **pizza casserole** is totally acceptable for breakfast!), pair it with a strong cup of coffee. For brunch, serve it with a side of fresh fruit and a mimosa. As a dessert, a light scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the savory flavors. For cozy snacks, think warm garlic bread or a bowl of creamy tomato soup.
My family always requests this for potlucks and game day parties. It’s easy to transport and always a hit. We usually serve it with a big bowl of salad and some garlic knots. It’s a complete meal that everyone loves!
How do I make a perfect pizza casserole?
What is the best pizza casserole recipe?
Pasta Prep:Don’t overcook pasta! Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy casserole. I’ve learned this the hard way more than once!
Meat Matters:How do you brown ground beef before adding it to a casserole? What are some ways to get rid of excess fat from a casserole? What is the best way to cook a greasy casserole?
Veggie Variety:What are some creative ways to use veggies? What are some good toppings for pizza? I sometimes add a can of drained and chopped tomatoes for extra moisture.
Cheese Choice:Use mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and melt. I prefer to shred my own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent aging. Is it melting properly? I also sometimes add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Sauce Savvy: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pizza sauces. You can use a classic marinara, a spicy arrabiata, or even a pesto sauce for a unique twist. I once tried a vodka sauce and it was amazing!
How do I layer like a pro? Layer your ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Start with a layer of pasta, followed by sauce, meat, veggies, and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Baking BrillianceBake the casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil. I always check the internal temperature with a thermometer to make sure it’s heated through.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Can you make this pizza casserole ahead of time? How do I do it?
Room Temperature:Can you leave the casserole at room temperature for up to 2 hours? After that, it needs to be refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: HowHow do you store a casserole in the refrigerator? Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it.
How do I use For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the casserole, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. I usually add a little extra cheese on top when reheating it in the oven to make it extra gooey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, friends! My go-to recipe for **pizza casserole**. It’s easy, delicious, and totally customizable – what more could you ask for? This is one of those recipes that I know I can always count on to deliver a comforting and satisfying meal, and I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes for more easy weeknight dinner ideas. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear what variations you come up with. Happy baking!
Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup Pepperoni slices
- 1 jar Pizza sauce
- 6 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 box Cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown Italian sausage in a large skillet; drain off excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage, pepperoni, and pizza sauce.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
