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!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta Base
• For Topping
• How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake Initially
• Step 6: Add Cheese and Pepperoni Topping
• Step 7: Final Bake
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Serve with Steamed Vegetables
• Offer Extra Toppings
• Include Dipping Sauces
• Use Creative Plates
• 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
• What is Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• Can I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?
• How do I make my Pizza Pasta Casserole spicier?
• Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 55 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: Combining beloved pizza ingredients makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out meats or veggies based on your family’s preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time enjoying dinner and less time in the kitchen.
• Cheesy Goodness: Who can resist the gooey melted mozzarella cheese on top?

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to gather before you start making your Pizza Pasta Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of all ingredients before baking.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: Ideal size for even cooking and easy serving of your casserole.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base

• 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)

PIN THIS!

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 the pasta once cooked and set aside but do not rinse.

Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add ground beef along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
2. Cook while crumbling until the meat is no longer pink. Drain 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 cheese.
2. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bake Initially

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

Step 6: Add Cheese and Pepperoni Topping

After removing from oven:
1. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
2. Arrange reserved 20 pepperoni slices on top.

Step 7: Final Bake

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

Step 8: Serve

Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Enjoy this delicious Pizza Pasta Casserole that brings comfort food right to your table!

How to Serve Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate the meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: The crispy texture and buttery flavor of garlic bread make it the perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the casserole.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy side that complements the cheesy pasta perfectly.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Additional Pepperoni or Cheese: Let guests customize their servings with extra pepperoni slices or grated cheese on top.

Include Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: Provide small bowls of marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the pizza flavors even more.

Use Creative Plates

• Individual Serving Dishes: Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a fun and personalized touch at your table.

How to Perfect Pizza Pasta Casserole

To make your Pizza Pasta Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Use Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the rotini just until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
• Mix Up the Meats: Try adding Italian sausage or turkey for different flavor profiles and added protein.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Blend mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a richer, more complex cheese flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms or spinach to boost nutrition and add more color to your casserole.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Pasta Casserole

To complete your meal, consider pairing your Pizza Pasta Casserole with some delightful side dishes. Each option adds a unique twist and complements the main dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic flavor are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze offers a bright contrast to the casserole’s richness.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a cool and creamy texture that balances out the flavors of baked pasta.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and a hint of sweetness to your meal.
5. Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens topped with vinaigrette give a light and refreshing counterpart to the cheesy casserole.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an elegant touch and robust flavors that pair well with pizza-inspired dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pizza Pasta Casserole, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough Italian seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to incorporate the right amount for a delicious dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the rotini too long can result in mushy pasta. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A poor-quality sauce can ruin your casserole’s flavor. Choose a good brand or make your own for the best results.
• Not draining the beef properly: Leaving grease in the meat mixture can make your casserole greasy. Drain it well before mixing with other ingredients.
• Ignoring the resting time: Serving immediately after baking can lead to a messy dish. Let your casserole rest for a few minutes to set before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pizza Pasta Casserole in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container and wrap it tightly; it will last for about 2–3 months.

Reheating Pizza Pasta Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a comforting dish that combines pasta with pizza ingredients like ground beef, pepperoni, marinara sauce, and cheese.

Can I customize my Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or substitute sausage for ground beef. The options are endless!

How do I make my Pizza Pasta Casserole spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to give your casserole an extra kick of heat.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular rotini with gluten-free pasta to make your casserole gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is not only a delightful blend of flavors but also versatile enough for many tastes. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, whether that means adding more veggies or using different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!