Craving pizza but want something heartier? This Pepperoni pizza casserole is the perfect solution! Combining all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza with the comfort of a baked pasta dish, this recipe is quick, cheesy, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. With layers of savory meat, melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni, this easy-to-make casserole brings together the best of two favorites in one dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy the taste of pizza in every bite—without the fuss of making dough!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta)
– One pound of Italian sausage or ground beef
– 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 package (6 oz) pepperoni slices
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced mushrooms, green bell peppers, or black olives
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat—season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Put the casserole with the cooked pasta, browned meat, pizza sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pasta mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheeses and arrange pepperoni slices on top.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the pepperoni is slightly crispy.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or fresh basil, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy pepperoni pizza casserole!
