The Best Pizza Casserole Ever!

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic favorite: The Best Pizza Casserole Ever! This easy pizza casserole recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike. My entire family devoured it and couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. What’s even better is that this pizza pasta casserole freezes beautifully, so you can prepare two batches and keep one for an easy freezer meal. With minimal effort, you can enjoy one casserole now and save the other for a hassle-free dinner on a busy night. Who doesn’t love having a ready-to-eat meal in the freezer?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about pizza recipes, don’t you think? From takeout to homemade creations like flatbread pizza, crock pot pizza chicken, or bubble-up pizza, our family enjoys pizza every week. It’s a surefire kid-pleaser, and I love how easy it is to put together. If you enjoy this pizza casserole, be sure to check out our Easy Lasagna Recipe for another quick and tasty meal!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Frying pan for browning meat
• 9×13×3 inch baking pan
• Oven
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground meat
• 1 16 oz. box bow tie pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 ounces sliced pepperoni
• 1 (26 ounce) jar pasta sauce
• 1 10 oz. can diced Italian style tomatoes
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Italian cheese blend
• Any other pizza toppings you like, such as black olives, sausage, onions, green peppers, etc.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil water with salt for the pasta. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain the pasta once cooked.
2. In a separate frying pan, brown the ground meat until fully cooked.
3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Lightly grease a 9×13×3 inch baking pan. Pour a small amount of pasta sauce to coat the bottom of the pan.
5. Add a layer of pasta, followed by half of the pasta sauce, the can of tomatoes, garlic powder, and oregano.
6. Layer the browned meat on top of the pasta, then add a layer of pepperoni slices.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and shredded Italian cheese blend.
8. Add another layer of pepperoni and any additional pizza toppings you desire.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite pizza toppings.
• For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh basil or red pepper flakes.

Additional Tips and Variations

Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option. If you’re a veggie lover, load it up with mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 400 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

This Pizza Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the best flavors of pizza in a convenient, easy-to-make casserole form. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Let me know what toppings you add and how your family enjoys it. Happy cooking!