Pizza Casserole
Indulge in the flavors of your favorite pizza with this easy and satisfying pizza casserole. It’s a perfect blend of pasta, cheese, and toppings, all baked to perfection. This dish is not only straightforward to prepare, but it also makes for a hearty meal that everyone will love. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a comforting dish that will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 cup sliced olives
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This pizza casserole serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. Note that these values are based on the ingredients listed and may vary based on specific brands used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
4. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Mix in the cooked pasta, pepperoni, olives, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
9. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your pizza casserole by using alternative proteins like turkey or plant-based sausage. You can also swap marinara for pesto or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile, and add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This pizza casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. A refreshing green salad can balance the richness of the dish, while garlic bread adds an extra touch of comfort.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can result in mushy texture.
- Not draining excess fat from meat can make the dish greasy.
- Using low-quality cheese may affect flavor and texture.
- Skipping the foil cover can lead to dried-out cheese.
- Not seasoning properly can make the casserole bland.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
- Incorporate leftover vegetables to minimize waste.
- Use a mix of meats for a heartier casserole.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I make pizza casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
What types of cheese can I use?
You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with vegetables or plant-based proteins to create a delicious vegetarian pizza casserole.
Can I add additional toppings?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a twist!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, usually after 30 minutes of baking.
Conclusion
This pizza casserole is a delightful and easy way to enjoy all the classic flavors of pizza in a comforting, hearty dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy making this dish as a fun weeknight meal or a special occasion treat!
Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup sliced olives
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Mix in the cooked pasta, pepperoni, olives, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
- Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
