Introduction: Craving a Cheesy, Hearty Dish That Tastes Like Pizza?
Ever wanted to enjoy all the flavors of a pepperoni pizza in a warm, comforting casserole? Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect recipe! This easy dish combines ground beef, pasta, spaghetti sauce, gooey mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni for a family-friendly meal that’s sure to please. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day feasts, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to whip up. Ready to make a delicious, pizza-inspired dish with minimal effort? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Overview: Why Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is Special
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun, hearty twist on classic pizza, transforming it into a baked pasta dish that’s easy to share. It’s cheesy, meaty, and packed with flavor. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 20 minutes prep, 25-30 minutes baking, for a total of around 45-50 minutes.
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a low-effort, high-flavor meal.
- Why It’s Unique: This casserole captures the essence of pepperoni pizza—savory sauce, melty cheese, and spicy pepperoni—while adding the comfort of pasta. It makes two large dishes, perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later, and it’s endlessly customizable to suit your tastes.
This recipe is indulgent, versatile, and great for pizza lovers of all ages. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 12-16 (makes two 13×9-inch casseroles) and uses pantry staples for a bold, pizza-like dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce
- 1 package (16 ounces) spiral or cavatappi pasta, cooked and drained
- 4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces sliced pepperoni
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Ground Beef: Adds hearty, savory protein to mimic pizza’s meaty toppings.
- Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Spaghetti Sauce: Acts as the pizza sauce, providing tangy, tomatoey flavor.
- Spiral or Cavatappi Pasta: Holds the sauce and cheese for a satisfying texture; spiral shapes trap flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Creates the classic, stretchy, melty pizza topping.
- Pepperoni: Delivers spicy, smoky flavor, the star of any pepperoni pizza.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Onion: Use red onion, shallots, or omit for a simpler dish.
- Spaghetti Sauce: Replace with marinara, pizza sauce, or a homemade tomato sauce.
- Pasta: Substitute with penne, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
- Mozzarella: Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, provolone, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Pepperoni: Swap with turkey pepperoni, salami, or omit for a vegetarian version (add mushrooms or bell peppers).
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check pepperoni and sauce for additives.
- Lower Fat: Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni.
- Veggie Boost: Add 1 cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives with the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a layer of jalapeños.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is quick and straightforward, with the oven doing the heavy lifting. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Cook 1 package (16 ounces) spiral or cavatappi pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Chop 1 large onion.
- Measure 3-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce, 4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, and 8 ounces sliced pepperoni.
- Grease two 13×9-inch baking dishes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Tip: Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet, cook 2 pounds ground beef and 1 chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain: Drain excess fat from the skillet to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to remove beef and onion, leaving fat behind.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Sauce and Pasta: In the skillet, stir 3-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce and the cooked pasta into the beef and onion mixture. Mix until well combined.
Tip: Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly without breaking it.
Step 4: Assemble the Casseroles
- Divide Mixture: Transfer the pasta mixture evenly into the two greased 13×9-inch baking dishes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over each casserole (4 cups total).
- Top with Pepperoni: Arrange 4 ounces sliced pepperoni over the top of each casserole, overlapping slightly for full coverage.
Tip: Layer pepperoni evenly to ensure every bite has that spicy kick.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: Check at 25 minutes; if the cheese is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casseroles cool for 5 minutes, then cut into squares and serve hot.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Assembling Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is all about layering classic pizza flavors into a comforting pasta dish. Here’s how to put it together:
- Cook the Base: Brown beef and onion for a savory foundation.
- Mix with Sauce and Pasta: Combine with spaghetti sauce and pasta for a hearty filling.
- Layer Cheese and Pepperoni: Top with mozzarella and pepperoni for that pizza vibe.
- Bake: Cook until bubbly and golden for a melty, cheesy finish.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve in squares on plates to show off the cheesy, pepperoni-topped layers.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of oregano for a pizza-parlor look.
- Pair with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Use colorful or white baking dishes to highlight the casserole’s vibrant red and golden hues.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is great for leftovers or prepping ahead. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep Ahead: Assemble casseroles up to 1 day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes if cold.
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta up to 1 day ahead; toss with a little olive oil and refrigerate to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Assemble casseroles (unbaked) or freeze baked leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake or reheat at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.
Tip: Freeze one casserole for an easy future meal; it’s perfect for busy nights.
Recipe Variations
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Supreme Pizza: Add 1 cup each diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives with the sauce.
- Spicy Version: Mix 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes into the sauce or use spicy pepperoni.
- Meat Lovers: Add 1/2 pound cooked Italian sausage or bacon with the beef.
- Vegetarian: Skip beef and pepperoni; use 2 cups sautéed veggies (zucchini, mushrooms, spinach) and extra cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check pepperoni and sauce for additives.
- Lower Fat: Use lean ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni.
- Cheesy Crust: Mix 1/2 cup grated Parmesan into the pasta mixture for extra cheesy flavor.
Tip: Keep the mozzarella and pepperoni for the classic pizza vibe.
Conclusion: Savor Your Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!
You’ve just made Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—a cheesy, hearty, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe is easy, flavorful, and so versatile you can make it your own. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a party, it’s sure to be a hit. Grab a slice, enjoy the melty cheese and spicy pepperoni, and savor the pizza-inspired goodness. What’s your favorite pizza topping to add? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Description
Ever wanted to enjoy all the flavors of a pepperoni pizza in a warm, comforting casserole? Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the perfect recipe! This easy dish combines ground beef, pasta, spaghetti sauce, gooey mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni for a family-friendly meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3–1/2 cups spaghetti sauce
- 1 package (16 ounces) spiral or cavatappi pasta, cooked and drained
- 4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces sliced pepperoni
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Ground Beef: Adds hearty, savory protein to mimic pizza’s meaty toppings.
- Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Spaghetti Sauce: Acts as the pizza sauce, providing tangy, tomatoey flavor.
- Spiral or Cavatappi Pasta: Holds the sauce and cheese for a satisfying texture; spiral shapes trap flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Creates the classic, stretchy, melty pizza topping.
- Pepperoni: Delivers spicy, smoky flavor, the star of any pepperoni pizza.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Onion: Use red onion, shallots, or omit for a simpler dish.
- Spaghetti Sauce: Replace with marinara, pizza sauce, or a homemade tomato sauce.
- Pasta: Substitute with penne, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
- Mozzarella: Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, provolone, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Pepperoni: Swap with turkey pepperoni, salami, or omit for a vegetarian version (add mushrooms or bell peppers).
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check pepperoni and sauce for additives.
- Lower Fat: Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni.
- Veggie Boost: Add 1 cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives with the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a layer of jalapeños.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Cook 1 package (16 ounces) spiral or cavatappi pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Chop 1 large onion.
- Measure 3-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce, 4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, and 8 ounces sliced pepperoni.
- Grease two 13×9-inch baking dishes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Tip: Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet, cook 2 pounds ground beef and 1 chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain: Drain excess fat from the skillet to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to remove beef and onion, leaving fat behind.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Sauce and Pasta: In the skillet, stir 3-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce and the cooked pasta into the beef and onion mixture. Mix until well combined.
Tip: Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly without breaking it.
Step 4: Assemble the Casseroles
- Divide Mixture: Transfer the pasta mixture evenly into the two greased 13×9-inch baking dishes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over each casserole (4 cups total).
- Top with Pepperoni: Arrange 4 ounces sliced pepperoni over the top of each casserole, overlapping slightly for full coverage.
Tip: Layer pepperoni evenly to ensure every bite has that spicy kick.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: Check at 25 minutes; if the cheese is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casseroles cool for 5 minutes, then cut into squares and serve hot.
FAQs
Q: Is Pepperoni Pizza Casserole healthy?
A: It’s hearty and high in protein, but the beef, cheese, and pepperoni add fat and sodium. Use lean beef, reduced-fat cheese, or turkey pepperoni, and add veggies for a lighter option. Pair with a salad for balance.
Q: Can I make this in one dish?
A: Yes! Use one deep 13×9-inch dish or a 4-quart casserole dish, but it may need 5-10 extra minutes to bake through. Check that it’s heated and bubbly.
Q: Can I use uncooked pasta?
A: No, the pasta must be cooked and drained first, as the baking time isn’t long enough to cook raw pasta properly.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Mix cooked beef, onion, sauce, and pasta; place in a greased 6-quart slow cooker. Top with cheese and pepperoni. Cook on Low for 2-3 hours, until heated through.
Q: Can I use homemade spaghetti sauce?
A: Absolutely! Use 3-1/2 cups of your favorite homemade sauce for a personalized flavor.
Q: Can I freeze Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?
A: Yes! Freeze unbaked or baked casseroles in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and bake or reheat at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.