If you are craving all the comforting, cheesy goodness of pizza but want something a little different and extra satisfying, this Pizza Casserole Recipe is the answer you’ve been looking for. It captures every delightful flavor of your favorite pizza—from savory Italian sausage to melty mozzarella and zesty marinara sauce—in a warm, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Each bite hits all the right notes with layers of tender pasta, rich sauce, and that irresistible blend of cheeses, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for weeknights and special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Pizza Casserole Recipe is a breeze because it uses ingredients that you probably already love and have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role in building those familiar pizza flavors and creating a casserole that’s rich in texture and vibrant in color.
- 4 cups penne pasta: Provides the perfect sturdy base to soak up all the delicious sauce without getting mushy.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Brings a wonderful savory depth and a slight kick to the dish.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds that classic pizza pepperoni flavor and a bit of chewy texture.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic background.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Gives a fresh crunch and mild bitterness that balances the richness.
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms: Adds earthy flavor and juicy texture when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory notes.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: The heart of the casserole, bringing tangy tomato goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty, stringy cheese experience we all love.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick that elevates the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb to brighten the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, peppery depth to the aroma and taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): For a fresh, herbal pop and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Pizza Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Boil the penne pasta until it is al dente, meaning tender but still with a slight bite. This timing is crucial because your pasta will cook a bit more in the oven and you don’t want it to turn mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, soften the chopped onion and green bell pepper over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and prepares them to mingle beautifully with the other flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook it thoroughly until browned, which usually takes around 7 to 10 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat so the casserole doesn’t become greasy but stays juicy.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Mushrooms
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. This combination creates a rich, savory base that perfectly complements the sausage and veggies.
Step 5: Mix in Sauce and Seasonings
Pour in the marinara sauce along with dried oregano and basil. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to let the herbs release their flavors and for the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, making sure the sauce is well balanced.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
In your prepared baking dish, start layering with half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the sauce mixture. Then sprinkle a layer of pepperoni slices, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers once more, creating a beautifully stacked casserole bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to melt thoroughly and turn golden and bubbly—the ultimate sign of a perfect pizza casserole.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Once the baking is done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set and cool a little for easier serving. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil for that lovely aromatic touch and a gorgeous pop of color.
How to Serve Pizza Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your pizza casserole with freshly chopped basil not only adds a burst of fresh flavor but also brightens the dish visually. You can also try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat or a drizzle of good quality olive oil for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This pizza casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as a simple arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a Caesar salad to add a refreshing contrast to the cheesy, hearty main dish. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables also complement the flavors and round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop their own generous portions. If you want to impress guests, try portioning it into smaller ramekins or cast-iron skillets for individual servings. You might even sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for a minute or two for an extra crisp cheese crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pizza casserole leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store your portions in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent the cheese from drying out. It’s a great dish to reheat for a quick, comforting meal anytime.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it has been cooked and completely cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen casserole will maintain best quality for about 2 to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also use a microwave for individual servings, but the oven helps keep the texture closer to freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because its tube shape holds the sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini depending on what you have and your preference.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this Pizza Casserole Recipe?
Yes, just omit the Italian sausage and pepperoni. You can add extra mushrooms, olives, or even some cooked eggplant or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this Pizza Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole the day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What type of marinara sauce works best?
Use a high-quality marinara sauce, either store-bought or homemade, that’s flavorful but not too watery. A thicker sauce prevents the casserole from becoming soggy and enhances the overall taste.
Can I add extra cheese to the casserole?
Of course! Cheese lovers rejoice—feel free to add more mozzarella or even sprinkle in some provolone or fontina. Just keep in mind the balance of flavors and melting properties as you experiment.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Casserole Recipe is a total winner when you want to combine the best of pizza and pasta in one comforting dish. It’s incredibly satisfying, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable to your favorite pizza toppings and flavors. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to recipe for cozy dinners and happy crowds. Give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pizza Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Pizza Casserole combines classic Italian flavors into a comforting baked dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring penne pasta, savory ground Italian sausage, pepperoni, and a rich marinara sauce layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this casserole offers all the taste of a pizza in a convenient, satisfying casserole form.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 4 cups penne pasta
Meat
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasonings
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Sausage: Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and flavors meld.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce along with dried oregano and basil. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: In the greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly. Layer half the sauce mixture on top, followed by half the pepperoni slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and toppings to form a second layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown and bubble the cheese on top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes with the marinara sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the Italian sausage for a leaner option.
- Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape if penne is unavailable.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding extra cheese on top before baking can give a richer, gooier finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
