Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
A delightful dish that combines classic pizza flavors with the heartiness of a casserole, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Opt for lean beef for better flavor.
- 8 oz pepperoni (sliced) Adds classic pizza flavor.
- 16 oz pizza sauce Thick and tangy for enhanced flavor.
- 12 oz pasta (cooked) Choose a pasta shape like penne or rotini.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded) Creates a cheesy texture once melted.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced pepperoni and pizza sauce with the cooked beef, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the beef and pepperoni mixture in a large mixing bowl, tossing gently.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Layer half of the pasta mixture in the dish, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top, add the remaining pasta mixture, and top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers. For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use sautéed vegetables.