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!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole can be prepared in under an hour, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and familiar pizza flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in just one baking dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pizza Pasta Casserole effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for this casserole ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta to the right texture before combining all ingredients.
• Large skillet: Key for browning the ground beef and mixing flavors effectively.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base

• 1 (16 oz) box rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Flavor

• 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. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook and crumble the ground beef along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt until the meat is 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 with the beef mixture.
2. Add chopped pepperoni (reserving 20 slices), diced green pepper, diced onion, marinara sauce, and 2 cups shredded mozzarella.
3. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish:
1. Spread it evenly across the dish.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove from oven:
1. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
2. Arrange reserved whole pepperoni slices on top.

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

Step 7: Serve

Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together nicely. Enjoy your delicious Pizza Pasta Casserole!

How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Serving this delightful casserole is simple, and you can pair it with various sides and garnishes to enhance the meal experience.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual family dinner. Let everyone scoop out their portions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place individual servings over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a fresh contrast to the hearty pasta.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair your casserole with warm garlic breadsticks or slices to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the casserole.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy cold or reheated leftovers for lunch the next day. It makes for an easy and satisfying meal!

How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole

To ensure your Pizza Pasta Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Marinara: Use a high-quality marinara sauce for better flavor. Homemade or store-bought, it makes all the difference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your rotini pasta until just al dente. It will absorb some sauce while baking without becoming mushy.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and variety.
• Check Cheese Melting: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking; it should be golden and bubbly but not burnt.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut into portions.
• Use Leftover Proteins: Utilize leftover chicken or sausage if you have them on hand; they can easily replace ground beef in this recipe.

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Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole

Complementing your Pizza Pasta Casserole with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: These soft and buttery knots are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a healthy contrast.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a light and flavorful appetizer option.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s healthiness.
7. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheese, olives, and pickled vegetables creates an inviting appetizer spread.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can serve as a delicious finger food alongside your casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pizza Pasta Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the rotini too long before baking can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Skipping seasoning – Forgetting to season the ground beef can lead to bland flavors. Always season your meat well during cooking.
• Not draining excess grease – Leaving grease in the skillet can make your casserole greasy. Make sure to drain it after cooking the beef.
• Using low-quality marinara – A subpar sauce can ruin your dish. Choose a high-quality marinara for better flavor.
• Rushing the cooling time – Cutting into your casserole right away can lead to a messy serving. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pizza Pasta Casserole in an airtight container.
• It lasts for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Yes! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or use different types of cheese based on your preference.

What type of pasta is best for Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Rotini works great due to its shape, but you can also use penne or fusilli if you prefer.

How do I make this Pizza Pasta Casserole vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or use plant-based meat alternatives.

Can I prepare this Pizza Pasta Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights and allows plenty of room for customization. Try adding your favorite toppings or vegetables to make it uniquely yours!

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