Casserole loves you ❤️ ...
Pizza casserole
Like pizza, but it took a casserole vacation.
🥕 Ingredients
📋 Complete List
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- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions and drained well
- 1 pound lean ground beef, browned and drained of excess fat
- 2 (24-ounce) jars high-quality pizza sauce, divided for layering
- 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, divided for optimal melting
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor depth
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced and sautéed until translucent
- 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms, cleaned and patted dry
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced into small pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed through a garlic press
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano for authentic pizza flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
📝 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks
Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the beef, cooking until vegetables are tender and aromatic
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the pizza sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly
Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom
Top with half of the meat and vegetable mixture, followed by half of both cheeses
Repeat layers with remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes until heated through and bubbly
Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown on top
💡 Chef's Tips
Cook pasta just until al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushy texture
Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for superior melting and flavor
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set properly
For extra flavor, add your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, Italian sausage, or black olives
📊 Nutrition Facts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake
Cook pasta al dente and avoid over-saucing the casserole
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
Fresh mozzarella and Parmesan provide the most authentic pizza flavor
The cheese should be melted and golden, and the edges should be bubbling