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 Casserole
• For Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Finish Baking
• How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Individual Portions
• Salad Pairing
• Garlic Bread
• Sliced Olives
• Dipping Sauces
• Extra Cheese
• 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
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• Can I make Pizza Pasta Casserole vegetarian?
• How do I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• What can I serve with Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole is a breeze to make even on hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore pizza flavors, making this a hit for family dinners and gatherings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single dish, which means less cleanup for you!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and combining flavors with seasonings.
• Mixing bowl: Ensures all ingredients are well-mixed before transferring them to the baking dish.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the ground beef along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
2. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Drain 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 (reserve 20 slices), diced green pepper, diced onion, marinara sauce, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
1. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
2. Remove from oven and sprinkle with an additional cup of mozzarella cheese.
3. Arrange the reserved 20 pepperoni slices on top.

Step 6: Finish Baking

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

Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Pizza Pasta Casserole!

How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

Serving Pizza Pasta Casserole is easy and fun! This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Individual Portions

• Serve in small bowls for a cozy, personal touch. Top each bowl with extra cheese or fresh herbs.

Salad Pairing

• A fresh garden salad complements the richness of the casserole. Choose a light vinaigrette for balance.

Garlic Bread

• Serve slices of garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Sliced Olives

• Offer a side of sliced black or green olives. They add a tangy flavor that pairs well with the pizza theme.

Dipping Sauces

• Provide marinara or ranch dressing as dipping sauces. They can be fun additions that kids will enjoy!

Extra Cheese

• Set out a bowl of grated Parmesan or additional shredded mozzarella for those who love extra cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole

Perfecting your Pizza Pasta Casserole is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Cook pasta al dente: This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during baking, keeping it firm and perfect.
• Brown the meat well: Ensure the ground beef is browned thoroughly for maximum flavor and texture.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like mushrooms or olives based on your family’s preferences.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
• Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and cheese for richer flavors in your casserole.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust Italian seasoning according to taste; add more garlic powder or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

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Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pairing sides with your Pizza Pasta Casserole enhances the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, they’re perfect for dipping into sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella bring brightness to your plate.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers a nice textural balance and zestiness.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix can cleanse the palate after savory bites.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and color to your meal.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser alongside any pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pizza Pasta Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking rotini too long can lead to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting spices results in bland flavors. Use Italian seasoning and garlic powder to elevate taste.
• Not Draining the Beef: Leaving grease in the meat mixture can make the casserole greasy. Always drain excess fat after cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Marinara Sauce: A poor sauce affects overall flavor. Choose a good-quality marinara for the best results.
• Not Allowing It to Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Best used within 2–3 months for quality.

Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop: Add a little water or marinara sauce to a pan, heat over medium until warm, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Pizza Pasta Casserole.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well as a substitute for rotini in this casserole.

Can I make Pizza Pasta Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap ground beef for sautéed vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, olives, or even pineapple for extra flavor!

What can I serve with Pizza Pasta Casserole?

This dish pairs nicely with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complement its cheesy goodness.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is an incredible blend of familiar flavors that appeals to everyone at the table. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your family’s preferences, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful comfort it brings!