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
• For the Meat Mixture
• For the Toppings
• For the Sauce
• For Cheese
• For Topping:
• How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• Step 6: Add Toppings
• Step 7: Final Baking
• How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Family Style
• With a Fresh Salad
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Garlic Bread
• As Leftovers
• 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 a different type of pasta?
• How do I make this Pizza Pasta Casserole vegetarian?
• What else can I add to my casserole?
• How do I store leftovers of 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 great for busy days.
• Flavor-Packed: Combining pizza ingredients with pasta creates a delicious fusion that satisfies every craving.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to suit dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pizza! This dish makes it easy to serve a crowd or enjoy as leftovers.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Pizza Pasta Casserole, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

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 evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and mixing in seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients thoroughly for even distribution in the casserole.
• Baking dish: A sturdy 9×13 inch dish holds all components securely while baking.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 (16 oz) box rotini pasta

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Toppings

• 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni, chopped (reserve 20 whole slices for topping)
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely diced

For the Sauce

• 36 oz marinara sauce

For Cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping:

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

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. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain well 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 with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt until no longer pink.
2. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove from oven and sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Arrange reserved pepperoni slices on top.

Step 7: Final Baking

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

Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delightful Pizza Pasta Casserole at your next family dinner!

How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

Serving Pizza Pasta Casserole is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. This dish is not only hearty but also versatile, making it a great centerpiece for any meal.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual and family-friendly meal.
• Allow everyone to help themselves, making it an interactive dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair with a green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers to complement the flavors of the casserole.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish individual portions with fresh basil or parsley.
• This adds color and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting side option.
• The crispy texture pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole.

As Leftovers

• Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results.
• Serve with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for an added treat.

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How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole

Achieving the perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole involves some simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture. Here are ways to elevate your dish:

• Use Quality Marinara: Opt for a high-quality marinara sauce for richer flavors throughout the casserole.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to add other toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers to customize your pizza experience.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or parmesan for added depth and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushiness.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps set layers and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole

Complementing your Pizza Pasta Casserole with the right side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this buttery bread is perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness that contrasts well with the rich pasta.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly steamed provide essential nutrients and color to your plate.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and enhances the Italian theme.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and complements the savory flavors of the casserole nicely.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pizza Pasta Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ground beef properly with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the rotini too long can result in mushy pasta. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
• Ignoring the cheese layer: Forgetting the cheese on top means missing out on that delicious melted texture. Always add extra cheese before the final bake for that gooey finish.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold marinara or cheese can affect cooking time. Allow them to come to room temperature for even baking.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after baking can lead to a messy slice. Let your casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for better slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Pizza Pasta Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for about 3–4 days.

Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2–3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.

Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water. Stir occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pizza Pasta Casserole.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While rotini is great, you can substitute with penne or fusilli depending on your preference.

How do I make this Pizza Pasta Casserole vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and pepperoni and replace them with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian option.

What else can I add to my casserole?

You can customize your Pizza Pasta Casserole by adding olives, bell peppers, or even different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

How do I store leftovers of Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients!