Meet the Pizza Casserole – a laid-back take on the charm of a traditional pizza pie. In just 20 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this cozy dish that comfortably serves 8-10 pizza enthusiasts.

Start by browning a pound of Italian sausage in a skillet along with onions and garlic until they’re nicely cooked. Mix in pizza sauce, marinara, dried oregano, and basil, seasoning it to your liking with salt and pepper.

Boil a pound of rotini or penne pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, and then mix it with the flavorful sauce, creating a hearty base for the casserole. Now, the fun part – layering! Alternate between pasta, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a medley of sliced pepperoni, diced bell peppers, and black olives.

Pop it in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and irresistibly bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes after taking it out, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Feel free to personalize your Pizza Casserole by adding your favorite toppings like mushrooms or different cheeses. This no-fuss dish is perfect for casual get-togethers, offering a comforting slice of pizza flavor without the fuss of delivery. Enjoy the simplicity and heartiness of a pizza party in casserole form!

Pizza Casserole

Experience a pizza party in casserole form! Robust noodles, savory sauces, gooey cheese, and an array of toppings unite in a quick, 65-minute dish. With Italian flair, this baked indulgence serves 8-10 and is perfect for gatherings. Customize, prep ahead, and savor a slice of pizza reimagined.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 5

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian – American

Servings 8 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Large pot for boiling noodles
Oven-safe casserole dish
Skillet or saucepan
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon
Chef's knife

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) rotini or penne pasta
1 pound (450g) ground Italian sausage
1 onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
2 cups pizza sauce
1 cup marinara sauce
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1 bell pepper diced
½ cup black olives sliced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
Stir in the pizza sauce, marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the oven-safe casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
Layer the sliced pepperoni, diced bell pepper, and black olives on top of the cheese. Repeat the process with the remaining pasta and mozzarella cheese.
Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Allow the pizza casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Customize the toppings based on your preferences – mushrooms, onions, and different types of cheese can be added.
Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
This pizza casserole is great for potlucks and family gatherings.

Keyword Comfort Food, Pasta Bake, Pizza Casserole, Pizza Party