What are some comfort food recipes? Remember those nights when you wanted pizza, but the idea of ordering delivery (again! What is your answer to Pizza Casserole? What are some of the best cheesy, tomato-y goodness of pizza in a casserole format? Is rolling out dough easier than rolling it out? Is lasagna and pizza a baby? What is a family favorite? I’ve been making it for years, tweaking it here and there until it’s reached peak perfection. What is the best way to use up leftover veggies?
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What is a pizza casserole?
Think of Pizza Casserole as deconstructed pizza, baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection in a dish. What is essentially a layered concoction of pasta, tomato sauce, your favorite pizza toppings, and topped with fresh mozzarella. What are some good examples of mozzarella cheese? What is pizza in casserole form? What is the basic concept of a business? What’s the best way to make a pizza without all the fuss? What is the traditional pizza crust? What are some of the best veggie recipes that are customizable? Is it a lifesaver when I’m trying to clean out the fridge?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? The flavor is out of this world! We’re talking a rich, savory tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a generous blanket of melted mozzarella. Each bite is like a party in your mouth! But the best part? It’s SO simple to make. Seriously, if you can boil water and stir ingredients together, you can make this Pizza Casserole. I’m all about recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying, and this one definitely fits the bill.
Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. The ingredients are all pretty common and inexpensive, especially if you use what you already have in your pantry and fridge. Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Want to add some pepperoni? Go for it! Have some leftover grilled chicken? Toss it in! The possibilities are endless. This makes it great for picky eaters and allows you to create a different pizza casserole every time you make it. What I love most about this is that it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Every time I make it for a potluck or family gathering, it’s always the first dish to disappear. It’s even more fun than my old standby for spaghetti!
How do I make a pizza casserole?
Quick Overview
How do you make a pizza casserole? How do you cook pasta, make tomato sauce, layer everything together in a bowl? In a casserole dish, and bake until golden and bubbly. What’s the best part? You can have it ready in less than an hour! What is a recipe you can throw together on saturday night without any stress? What is the smell that fills your kitchen while baking?
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape) – I always use roti because the sauce clings to the pasta. Is it safe to eat? What are some good quality pastas that hold their shape when cooked? Is it safe to cook in the oven?
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin olives add a nice flavor, but any olive will do.
1 onion, chopped – Yellow or white onion works best.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly sliced garlic is always better than the pre-minced stuff, trust me.
What is the best way to buy crushed tomatoes? San Marzano is my favorite city.
1 can tomato sauce – Adds extra richness to the sauce.
What is the best way to use dried oregano on pizza?
1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Enhances the oregano flavor.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little kick!
Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously!
For the Filling:
1 cup pepperoni slices – Use your favorite brand of pepper. You can also use other meats like sausage or ham.
1 cup sliced mushrooms – Adds a nice earthy flavor.
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper – Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch.
1/2 cup black olives, sliced – Adds a salty, briny flavor. Make sure to drain them well!
For the Cheese: What is the best
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Use whole milk mozzarella for the best flavor and melt.
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 like to use olive oil or cooking spray. Make sure you get all the corners and edges so the casserole doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well. You don’t want it to be mushy! This is super important. I always set a timer to make sure I don’t overcook it.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do I burn garlic?
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. How do flavors meld together?
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, pepperoni, mushrooms, green bell pepper, salt and pepper. Serve immediately. What are black olives? Mix well to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Layer and Bake
In a large baking dish, pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated. Remove from oven and let cool completely. I like to broil cheese for the last minute or two to get nice and browned.
Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If you want to make a salad with fresh basil or parsley, add this to your salad.
What should I serve it with?
Pizza Casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but it’s always nice to have a little something on it.
For a casual weeknight dinner:What is a green salad with vinaigrette? Is it possible to serve this sauce with garlic bread?
For a potluck or party:Can you serve it with a variety of appetizers like mozzarella sticks, onion rings, or mini muffins? What is a good salad or vegetable platter?
For a Cozy Night In: What are some suggestions?What are some good wine pairings? What is a good red wine like Pinot Noir? My family tradition is to pair it with sparkling apple cider, my kids love it!
How do you make a perfect pizza casserole?
How do you take your pizza casserole to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I have learned over the years?
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: This is probably the most important tip. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy in the casserole. Cook it al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it.
Use Good Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the casserole will taste. Use good quality crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. It makes a difference!
Customize It to Your Liking: This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like sausage, mushrooms, olives, or peppers.
Broil for Extra Brownness: If you want the cheese to be extra browned and bubbly, broil the casserole for the last minute or two of baking. Just be careful not to burn it!
Let It Rest Before Serving: This allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it prevents it from being too hot to eat right away.
I also like to sprinkle a little bit of parmesan cheese on top before baking for some extra flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Pizza Casserole (which is rare!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight (if frozen). Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be sure to cover it with a paper towel to prevent splattering.
I usually like to add a little bit of fresh mozzarella cheese on top when reheating it to make it extra cheesy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Casserole Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit. I truly hope you give this recipe a try! If you enjoy this Pizza Casserole, you might also love my Easy Baked Ziti or my Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake. Both are equally delicious and easy to make! Happy cooking, everyone! I can’t wait to hear how your Pizza Casserole turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. I’d also love to hear about any variations you make – maybe you add some pineapple (controversial, I know!), or maybe you use a different type of pasta. Share your creations! Happy baking!
How to Make the Ultimate Pizza Casserole Pie: 5 Easy Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 28 oz refrigerated pie crusts or equivalent homemade or your favorite store-bought brand
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 pounds ground beef or turkey for a leaner option
- 25 oz marinara sauce choose a robust, flavorful variety
- 3 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 1 cup sliced green olives divided
- 1 cup red bell peppers diced
- 1 cup baby spinach fresh
- 2 teaspoons herbes de provence or Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
- as desired optional toppings sliced jalapeños, pineapple chunks
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one pie crust to cover the bottom and sides of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil, pre-bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Mix in marinara sauce, 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, half of the olives, bell peppers, and spinach. Season with herbes de provence, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Fill the pre-baked crust with the mixture. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and olives. Optional: add a top pie crust, cut slits for steam.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbly. Let cool 10-15 minutes before slicing.
