If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and packed with pizza flavor, this Pizza Pasta Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This hearty dish combines the best of two favorite comfort foods—pizza and pasta—into one easy-to-make, family-approved casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game days, or anytime you need a cheesy, meaty, and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
Fast and easy: Comes together in about 45 minutes total.
Customizable: Choose your favorite pizza toppings and pasta.
Kid-friendly: What kid doesn’t love pizza and pasta?
Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepped and refrigerated or frozen for later.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a hungry group of friends, this pizza pasta bake will become a regular on your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar of marinara or pizza sauce
8 oz rotini or penne pasta
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, banana peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned. Add the diced onions and garlic, and sauté until soft. Drain excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the pasta mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni slices. Add any optional toppings you’d like.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown edges.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Expert Tips for the Best Pizza Pasta Casserole
Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Double the batch: Bake one and freeze the second for an easy future meal.
Use different pasta: Ziti, elbow, or bowtie pasta work just as well.
Go cheese crazy: Try a mix of provolone, cheddar, or even ricotta for a creamier texture.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use jarred pizza sauce instead of marinara?
Absolutely! Pizza sauce adds a more concentrated tomato flavor and works great in this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default. But if you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
Can I use turkey or plant-based meat instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles are all great substitutes.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti work best because they hold the sauce and bake evenly.
How do I make it ahead?
Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Pasta Casserole is the perfect fusion of flavor, convenience, and comfort. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes—savory, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share, this casserole is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.