Pizza Pasta Casserole

If comfort food had a superstar, this Pizza Pasta Casserole would be it. Think of all the flavors of your favorite pizza—gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, rich marinara—combined with perfectly cooked pasta and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Every bite is cheesy, savory, and loaded with that irresistible Italian flavor that makes you want seconds (and maybe thirds).

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, feeding a crowd, or even making ahead and reheating later. It’s a dish that feels like home in every bite—trust me, your family or friends are going to ask for this one on repeat.

Recipe Origin

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and when you combine pizza and pasta? Pure genius. This dish is inspired by classic Italian-American flavors, turning the beloved pizza into a hearty, family-friendly baked pasta meal. It’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to fill the house with a cozy, mouthwatering aroma.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for pasta
• 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Why You’ll Love Pizza Pasta Casserole

Versatile

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual dinner parties. You can even customize it with your favorite pizza toppings.

Budget-Friendly

Uses everyday pantry and fridge staples like pasta, cheese, and pepperoni—easy on the wallet but big on flavor.

Quick and Easy

Sauté, mix, and bake—it’s as simple as that. No need to make separate pizza dough.

Customizable

Swap meats, add veggies, or use your favorite cheeses. The possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing

Cheesy, meaty, and flavorful—kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients in Pizza Pasta Casserole

Here’s what makes this casserole so irresistible:

Lean Ground Beef

Adds savory, hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with Italian sausage.

Italian Sausage

Brings rich, spiced depth to the casserole for a classic pizza flavor.

Onion & Green Bell Pepper

These aromatics give the casserole a subtle sweetness and crunch that balances the rich meat and cheese.

Garlic

Minced garlic infuses the sauce with warmth and a touch of pungency.

Beef Broth, Worcestershire, & Hot Sauce

These ingredients boost the flavor of the meat and sauce, making every bite complex and satisfying.

Dried Basil, Oregano, Paprika, & Red Pepper Flakes

Classic Italian spices that give the casserole that signature pizza-herb flavor with a slight kick.

Marinara & Pizza Sauce

The tomato base keeps the pasta moist and delivers that iconic pizza taste.

Penne Pasta

Holds onto the sauce and cheese beautifully, creating a hearty texture.

Mozzarella & Parmesan

Mozzarella melts into gooey perfection while Parmesan adds a sharp, savory finish.

Pepperoni

Slices scattered on top add a fun, classic pizza touch and extra flavor.

Garnish: Parmesan

A final sprinkle makes the dish look and taste extra special.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and green bell pepper over medium heat until the meat is browned and the veggies are softened. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Garlic & Seasonings

Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and beef broth. Let it simmer for a minute to combine flavors. Then add basil, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Combine Sauces

Pour in the marinara and pizza sauce, stirring until the meat and vegetables are fully coated in the flavorful sauce. Simmer briefly to let everything meld.

Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture. Stir in a portion of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Pour everything into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices on top.

Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For extra browning, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle additional Parmesan on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop warm portions onto plates, and get ready for a bite of cheesy, savory, pasta-filled pizza heaven.

Nutrition Facts

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How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

• With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• With a Salad: Caesar or mixed greens add a refreshing balance.
• As a Standalone Meal: Rich and hearty enough to enjoy on its own.
• Party-Style: Serve in the baking dish for a casual family-style meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Make the sauce and cook pasta a day before; assemble before baking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven for best results; microwave works but cheese may be less melty.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze uncooked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.

Variations to Try

• Veggie Version: Omit meat and add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or provolone for an even gooier casserole.
• Spicy Kick: Increase hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños.
• Different Pasta: Rigatoni, fusilli, or penne rigate all work beautifully.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overcook pasta before baking—it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the casserole rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this vegetarian?
A1: Absolutely—replace meats with extra vegetables or plant-based sausage.

Q2: Can I use frozen pasta?
A2: Fresh or thawed pasta works best; frozen may release excess water.

Q3: Can I assemble it ahead of time?
A3: Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate; bake when ready.

Q4: Can I make it spicier?
A4: Yes—add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Q5: Can I use different cheese?
A5: Sure! Cheddar, provolone, or even gouda can be fun alternatives.

Q6: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A6: Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time slightly.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A7: Oven or toaster oven works best to keep the cheese bubbly and pasta tender.

Q8: Can I use jarred pizza sauce?
A8: Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.

Q9: Is this kid-friendly?
A9: Definitely—cheesy, meaty, and mild, it’s a favorite for all ages.

Q10: Can I make it gluten-free?
A10: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are gluten-free for a safe swap.

Conclusion

Pizza Pasta Casserole takes all the best parts of pizza and pasta and bakes them together into a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. It’s perfect for busy nights, feeding a crowd, or just indulging in something cozy and delicious.

So next time you’re craving pizza and pasta at the same time, skip the takeout and make this casserole instead—you won’t regret it.

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