Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked casserole wafting through the kitchen. Introducing the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—a delightful fusion of your favorite pizza flavors in a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave something cozy and delicious. Serve it with a crisp salad and some garlic bread for a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a hit for many reasons! It combines the best parts of pizza—gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and flavorful sauce—into a hearty casserole. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and offers the flexibility to customize with your favorite toppings. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Frying pan for browning meat
• 9×13×3 inch baking dish
• Oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

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 oz.) jar pasta sauce
• 1 (10 oz.) can diced Italian style tomatoes
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 (8 oz.) package shredded Italian cheese blend
• Optional pizza toppings: black olives, sausage, onions, green peppers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a frying pan, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
3. Lightly grease the 9×13×3 inch baking dish. Pour a small amount of pasta sauce to coat the bottom of the dish.
4. Add a layer of cooked pasta to the dish. Top with half of the pasta sauce, the can of diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and oregano.
5. Layer the browned meat over the pasta, followed by a layer of pepperoni slices.
6. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and half of the shredded Italian cheese blend.
7. Add more pepperonis on top, along with any additional toppings you desire.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips for Success

• For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Pre-cooking the pasta slightly less than package directions can help it hold up better when baked.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to substitute ground beef or Italian sausage for the ground meat, or use pizza sauce in place of pasta sauce for a more pizza-like flavor. This dish is versatile, so get creative with your favorite pizza toppings!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 (approx.)
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even pineapple if you like a sweet touch.

Conclusion

Give this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole a try and experience the delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. If you try it out, be sure to share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with!