Cheesy Pizza Casserole Recipe (Family-Friendly Twist)

Name: Cheesy Pizza Casserole Recipe (Family-Friendly Twist)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound of ground beef; 1 cup of sliced mushrooms; 1 cup of sliced pepperoni; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups of cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini); 1 jar (14 oz) of pizza sauce; 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

March 26, 2025

Recipes

As a lover of both pizza and casseroles, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes that combine the two. That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the Cheesy Pizza Casserole recipe. Not only does it satisfy my cravings for both pizza and casseroles, but it also adds a family-friendly twist that makes it a hit with everyone in my household. This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I am excited to share it with you all.

Why This Recipe Works

There are several reasons why this Cheesy Pizza Casserole recipe stands out and has become a favorite in my household. Here are a few of them:

The combination of pizza and casserole creates a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.
The addition of vegetables and protein makes this dish a well-rounded and nutritious option for the whole family.
The use of simple and easily accessible ingredients makes this recipe budget-friendly and convenient for busy weeknights.
The customizable nature of this recipe allows for endless variations and personalization to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Pizza Casserole recipe serves 6-8 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook.

1 pound of ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 cup of sliced mushrooms
1 cup of sliced pepperoni
1 jar of pizza sauce
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 package of cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the cooked pasta on the bottom.
Next, add a layer of the ground beef and vegetable mixture on top of the pasta.
Spread a layer of pepperoni on top of the ground beef mixture.
Pour the jar of pizza sauce over the pepperoni layer.
Add a layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the pizza sauce.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

My Pro Tips for Success

Feel free to add any additional toppings or vegetables to this casserole, such as olives, diced tomatoes, or spinach.
If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can use spicy pepperoni or add some red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
This casserole can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What I Serve With This Recipe

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with this casserole.
Garlic bread or breadsticks are also a great addition to this meal.
A glass of red wine or a cold beer can also complement the flavors of this dish.

FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the ground beef and pepperoni and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach, to make a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with foil and store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as macaroni, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This Cheesy Pizza Casserole recipe is not only delicious and easy to make, but it also brings a fun and unique twist to the classic pizza and casserole dishes. It is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it is a great way to sneak in some vegetables and protein for picky eaters. Trust me; this recipe will become a family favorite in no time.

Your Turn

I hope you give this Cheesy Pizza Casserole recipe a try and enjoy it as much as my family does. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch to it. And if you have any suggestions or variations, I would love to hear them in the comments below. Happy cooking!