Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Discover how to make the ultimate Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole, a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting meal that combines the best of pizza and pasta.
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent (3-4 minutes). If using, add diced bell peppers and cook for 2 more minutes.
4. Add the Sauce
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Layer half the cooked pasta in the prepared dish, followed by half the beef sauce. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat layers, ending with cheese.
6. Add the Toppings
Top with mini pepperoni slices, Parmesan cheese, and black olives for a pizza-inspired finish.
7. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh basil, slice into squares, and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheese for maximum flavor.
- Try Different Meats: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, turkey, or shredded chicken.
- Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic breadsticks, or a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- To Store: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.
- To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending pizza and pasta into one delicious dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Get ready to indulge in cheesy, savory goodness!
