If you can’t decide between pizza and lasagna, why not have both? This Pizzagna Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, featuring layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, and all the flavors of your favorite pizza.
I love this recipe because it brings together two classic dishes into one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner, a potluck, or game night, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Let’s get into how to make this delicious and cheesy pizzagna casserole at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A perfect mix of lasagna and pizza – Two favorites in one dish!
- Easy to make – No complicated layering required.
- Cheesy, meaty, and packed with flavor – The ultimate comfort food.
- Great for feeding a crowd – Perfect for parties or meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves: 6-8 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes)
For the Casserole Base:
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles (or penne pasta)
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Layers:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Pizzagna Casserole
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Mix the Ricotta Layer
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of cooked noodles, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Top with pepperoni slices and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Let It Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm!
My Best Tips for Perfect Pizzagna Casserole
- Use oven-ready lasagna noodles – Saves time and eliminates boiling.
- For extra flavor – Mix Italian sausage with the ground beef.
- Want a crispy topping? – Broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Make it vegetarian – Swap the meat for mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
What to Serve with Pizzagna Casserole
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- A fresh green salad – Lightens up the meal.
- Roasted vegetables – Such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- A glass of red wine – Complements the rich flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze pizzagna casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.
This Pizzagna Casserole is cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold flavors, making it the perfect comfort meal for pizza and lasagna lovers alike. Whether you serve it for family dinner, game night, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
Pizzagna Casserole: The Ultimate Pizza and Lasagna Mashup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture and stir to combine.
- In a large pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the meat mixture, half of the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a third of the marinara sauce.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara sauce and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and serving.
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