This Pizza Casserole is a quick and easy dish that everyone will love. Combining the best elements of pizza and pasta, this casserole is packed with flavors and textures that make it a family favorite. With ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and plenty of cheese, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz small elbow macaroni
- 1/2 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage
- 2 1/2 – 3 oz pepperoni slices (or as needed)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 20 oz pizza sauce
- 8 oz freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- Thin slices of green bell pepper (as needed)
- Pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Macaroni: 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Meat: 3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Add the Vegetables and Seasoning: 4. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Combine with Pizza Sauce: 5. Pour the pizza sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Assemble the Casserole: 6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the meat and sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Layer the Casserole: 7. Pour half of the macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated mozzarella cheese over the top. Layer with half of the pepperoni slices and green bell pepper slices. Repeat with the remaining macaroni mixture, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and bell pepper slices.
Bake: 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
Serve: 9. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with pepper flakes if desired.
Nutritional Benefits of Pizza Casserole
This Pizza Casserole is a hearty meal that offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Ground beef and Italian sausage provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Cheese adds calcium and additional protein, supporting bone health and muscle function. The inclusion of vegetables such as onions and green bell peppers adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Customization Options
This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit different preferences and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Use vegetarian sausage or meat substitutes if desired.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or Parmesan for varied flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with some sides to enhance the dining experience:
- Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Complement the dish with slices of garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition and variety.
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results, consider these cooking tips:
- Pasta Cooking: Cook the macaroni until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Even Layers: Layer the ingredients evenly in the baking dish to ensure a uniform bake and balanced flavors in each bite.
- Cheese Melting: Use freshly grated mozzarella cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Here are some ideas for using them:
- Reheat and Serve: Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use the leftover casserole to stuff bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender.
- Pizza Casserole Sandwich: Make a sandwich using the leftover casserole, adding some fresh lettuce and tomato slices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pizza Casserole is the perfect combination of two classic comfort foods: pizza and pasta. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavors, and loved by both kids and adults. The recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your family’s tastes, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a delicious way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Additional Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Cheese Grating: For the best melting and texture, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties.
- Bell Pepper Slices: Thinly slice the bell peppers to ensure they cook evenly and add a delightful crunch.
- Simmering Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together before combining with the pasta.
This Pizza Casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, providing a delicious and comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.