Pizza Casserole
Craving pizza but looking for something different? Our pizza casserole is the perfect solution! Bursting with flavors of cheese, pepperoni, and fresh vegetables, this dish brings all the comfort of pizza in a warm, hearty casserole form. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce
– 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced black olives
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the casserole): 450 calories, 22g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 25g protein, and 800mg sodium.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
4. Drain excess grease and stir in pizza sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
6. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta layer.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the cheese.
9. Top with sliced black olives.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based protein for a healthier option. You can also use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving and Pairings
This pizza casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara on the side.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.
- Not draining the beef properly can make the casserole greasy.
- Using too much sauce can lead to a soggy dish.
- Skipping the seasoning may leave the casserole bland.
- Not letting it cool slightly before serving can cause it to fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different toppings like mushrooms or pepperoni.
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance flavor.
- Always let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make pizza casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
What types of cheese can I use?
Along with mozzarella, you can use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Is pizza casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
It’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Conclusion
Pizza casserole is not only a delicious twist on a classic favorite but also a great way to feed a crowd. With its cheesy goodness and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 jar 24 oz pizza sauce
- 3 cups cooked pasta penne or rotini
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
- Drain excess grease and stir in pizza sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the pasta layer.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the cheese.
- Top with sliced black olives.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.