Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta shape works beautifully. Rotini, ziti, rigatoni, or cavatappi are excellent choices. They all hold sauce well and create that perfect bite. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine since they don't mix as easily.

How long does pizza casserole last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Can I skip browning the meat?

No, this step is essential. Browning develops deep, savory flavors and ensures the meat cooks completely. Raw meat won't cook properly in the casserole and will release too much moisture.

Why is my pizza casserole watery?

This usually happens when you don't drain the grease from the meat thoroughly. Watery marinara sauce or vegetables with high water content can also cause this issue. Make sure to drain everything well.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip all the meat and load up on vegetables instead. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and white beans for protein. You'll still get a satisfying, flavorful casserole.

Pizza Casserole Recipe: Easy, Cheesy & Family-Approved

Description

Enjoy all the best flavors of pizza baked into a hearty, cheesy pasta casserole! This Pizza Casserole is loaded with ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, marinara, and gooey mozzarella, the perfect weeknight comfort food that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups penne pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 pound pork sausage
4 ounces pepperoni
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can sliced mushrooms (optional)
1 small can sliced black olives
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara pasta sauce
1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat with pepperoni, bell pepper, onion, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic, mushrooms, and olives.
Add Pasta & Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and marinara sauce to the mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with 1–2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Bake at 350°F for 25–35 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Add extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding crumbled bacon or diced ham.

Make-ahead: assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

To freeze, wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight before baking as directed.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pizza casserole, pasta bake, family dinner, cheesy casserole, comfort food