Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Pasta Casserole combines two comfort food favorites—pizza and pasta—into one hearty, cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish. With layers of saucy pasta, savory meats, melty cheese, and classic pizza toppings, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this casserole delivers all the flavors of a loaded pizza in a baked, pasta-packed form.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastaground beef or Italian sausagepizzatomato saucesliced pepperoniItalian seasoninggarlic powdershredded mozzarella cheeseshredded cheddar cheeseonion (optional)bell peppers or mushrooms (optional)olive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion (if using) and sauté until softened.

Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet, cook until browned, and drain excess grease.

Stir in pizza sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish.

Layer half the pasta mixture in the dish, sprinkle with half the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and add a layer of pepperoni and optional veggies.

Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese and pepperoni on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
Add olives, jalapeños, or pineapple for a personalized pizza touch.
Try different cheeses like provolone or Parmesan for more depth of flavor.
Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
You can freeze the casserole (unbaked or baked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance before baking.

Do I have to use pepperoni?

No, you can substitute with other meats or make it vegetarian with extra veggies.

Can I add more sauce?

Yes, if you prefer a saucier casserole, add extra pizza or marinara sauce.

Is it kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the cheesy, pizza-like flavors.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What’s the best way to freeze it?

Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing. For unbaked versions, label with baking instructions.

Can I add ricotta or cottage cheese?

Yes, for a creamier, lasagna-like texture, layer some ricotta or cottage cheese between the pasta.

How do I keep the cheese from burning?

Cover with foil for most of the baking time and only uncover near the end to melt and brown the top.

Can I use leftover pasta?

Yes, just mix it with the meat sauce and follow the rest of the recipe.

Conclusion

Pizza Pasta Casserole is the ultimate fusion of flavor and convenience, bringing together everything you love about pizza and pasta in one satisfying dish. It’s endlessly adaptable, quick to put together, and sure to become a go-to family favorite. Whether for dinner tonight or meal prep for the week, this casserole is always a winner.