Cheesy Pizza Casserole with Pepperoni is a comforting dish that combines all the beloved flavors of your favorite pizza into a hearty, family-friendly casserole. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re craving the savory notes of Italian sausage, tangy pizza sauce, or gooey cheese pulling apart with every scoop, this casserole delivers it all. I often make it when I want to keep everyone in the family happy and satisfy their cravings without hovering over the stove all night long.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try making Cheesy Pizza Casserole with Pepperoni! For starters, this dish is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a perfect option for a busy evening when you want something delicious and filling without a lot of fuss. This casserole is also budget-friendly, using ingredients you might already have at home.
Another reason to make it? Kids absolutely adore it! Its classic pizza flavors are appealing to even the pickiest eaters, which means you’ll likely have clean plates around the dinner table. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and potluck parties, ensuring you have a dish that both kids and adults can enjoy.
“My family is obsessed! This casserole is everything we love about pizza, but even better because it’s so easy to serve and share! Definitely adding it to our regular dinner rotation.”
Preparing Cheesy Pizza Casserole with Pepperoni
Making this flavorful dish is straightforward and fun! You’ll start by cooking your pasta and browning your meat, then combine everything together in a baking dish for a deliciously cheesy bake. Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved:
- Cook the pasta until just al dente.
- Brown the meat in a skillet and mix in the sauces and seasonings.
- Combine the pasta with the meat sauce, layer with cheese, and top with pepperoni.
- Bake until bubbly, then let it rest before serving.
Let’s gather everything you need to make this flavorful casserole!
What you’ll need
Prepare for your cooking adventure by gathering the following ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (use turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional add-ins: sliced black olives, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked bacon
