Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole brings together all your favorite pizza flavors in one cheesy, comforting, family-friendly dish. This hearty baked pasta is loaded with tender rotini, savory ground beef, pepperoni, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella—making it a perfect one-pan dinner for busy weeknights that kids and adults alike will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta Mixture
• For Topping
• How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Family Style
• With Fresh Herbs
• With Garlic Bread
• Side Salad
• How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• How long does Pizza Pasta Casserole last in the fridge?
• Can I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• Is Pizza Pasta Casserole kid-friendly?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just over an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and classic pizza flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one baking dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings or substitute ingredients based on dietary needs.
• Great Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or lunches.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Pizza Pasta Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish provides ample space to hold all the ingredients while ensuring even cooking.
• Large Pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef evenly without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Mixture

• 1 (16 oz) box rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni, chopped (reserve 20 whole slices for topping)
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 36 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 20 whole pepperoni slices (reserved from package)

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How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain it well and set aside (do not rinse).

Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook and crumble the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt until it’s no longer pink.
2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture.
2. Add chopped pepperoni (reserving 20 slices), diced green pepper, diced onion, marinara sauce, and 2 cups shredded mozzarella.
3. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom:
1. Bake for 15 minutes.
2. Remove from oven and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
3. Arrange reserved pepperoni slices on top.

Return to oven for an additional 10–15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pizza Pasta Casserole!

How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish. This makes for an easy and relaxed dinner where everyone can help themselves.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the rich flavors of the casserole.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with toasted garlic bread for a crunchy complement. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the overall meal.

Side Salad

• A crisp side salad balances the richness of the casserole. Choose greens like romaine or spinach with a light vinaigrette dressing.

How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole

Making the perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole is easy with a few helpful tips. These will ensure you achieve that cheesy, flavorful goodness every time.

• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during baking. Aim for slightly undercooked pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Season your meat well: Use Italian seasoning and garlic powder generously when cooking beef. This adds depth of flavor to your casserole.
• Use quality marinara sauce: A good sauce can elevate your dish significantly. Look for one that is rich and flavorful, or make your own if time allows.
• Layer your cheese: For extra cheesiness, layer cheese within the pasta mixture and on top before baking. This ensures every bite is gooey and delicious.
• Let it rest after baking: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.

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Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole

Complementing your Pizza Pasta Casserole with side dishes can make your meal complete. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crispness and tanginess that pairs well with cheesy pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, salami, and cheese for an Italian-inspired starter.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrast against the rich casserole.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a fun, summery addition that complements any baked dish.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet finish that balances savory flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the right techniques can enhance your Pizza Pasta Casserole. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure the casserole bakes properly.
• Overcooking Pasta: Cooking pasta too long before baking can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and slightly undercook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect flavor. Choose fresh vegetables and quality meats for a tastier casserole.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your ground beef can lead to blandness. Use Italian seasoning and garlic powder generously for a flavorful dish.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can result in a messy serving. Allow it to rest for a few minutes for better slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 3–4 days for best taste.

Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole

• item Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.
• item Best consumed within 2–3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil to prevent drying out; heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce to keep it moist while heating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a delicious dish that combines pasta, pizza flavors like pepperoni and cheese, all baked together into one hearty meal.

How long does Pizza Pasta Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly, Pizza Pasta Casserole lasts about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or swap proteins such as sausage or turkey for variety.

Is Pizza Pasta Casserole kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Its cheesy goodness and familiar pizza flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne or fusilli according to your preference, but adjust cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a comforting family favorite that brings everyone together at mealtime. With its cheesy layers and customizable ingredients, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Try experimenting with different toppings or sauces for your unique twist!

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