Dump Pizza casserole

Ingredients

- 8 +

• 1 (16 oz) box elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 3 cups (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 3 cups water
• 10 ounces sliced pepperoni
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 425°. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray.

Done!

2

Pour uncooked elbows, spaghetti sauce, water and 1/2 pepperoni slices into casserole dish.

Done!

3

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Done!

4

Remove from oven and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Sprinkle the remaining pepperoni over the top.

Done!

5

Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Done!

6

Enjoy!

Done!

Kitchen Tools

• 9x13 inch baking dish for even cooking and proper portioning
• Large skillet for browning meat and sautéing vegetables
• Sharp knife and cutting board for precise vegetable preparation
• Cheese grater for fresh, perfectly shredded cheese

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

Troubleshooting

If too watery, drain excess liquid and continue baking uncovered

If top browns too quickly, cover with foil until fully heated through

If pasta seems dry, add additional warm sauce before serving

If cheese isn't melting properly, increase temperature for final few minutes

Recipe Variations

Supreme Pizza Casserole: Add pepperoni, Italian sausage, and additional vegetables

BBQ Chicken Pizza Casserole: Use BBQ sauce and shredded chicken instead of traditional ingredients

Mediterranean Pizza Casserole: Include feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Casserole: Incorporate buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles

Healthy Alternatives

Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content and nutritional value

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to reduce fat content

Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots for more nutrients

Use reduced-fat cheese and load up on vegetables to create a lighter version

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal

Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition

Offer additional pizza toppings on the side for customization

Include a side of warm marinara sauce for extra dipping

Nutrition Facts

385

Calories

23g

Protein

42g

Carbs

18g

Fat

4g

Fiber

6g

Sugar

780mg

Sodium

55mg

Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta

Vegetarian version possible by substituting meat with plant-based crumbles

Dairy-free options available using non-dairy cheese alternatives

Low-carb version can be made using zucchini noodles or cauliflower

Garnish Ideas

Fresh basil leaves chiffonade for authentic Italian presentation

Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Red pepper flakes for those who enjoy extra heat

Fresh oregano leaves for aromatic appeal

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout, adding extra sauce if needed

Leftover Ideas

Create individual portions for quick microwave lunches during the week

Use leftovers as a filling for calzones or stromboli

Transform into a breakfast casserole by adding scrambled eggs

Make pizza grilled cheese sandwiches with leftover portions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta before baking, which leads to mushy results

Using too much sauce, making the casserole watery and unstable

Not allowing the casserole to rest before serving, causing it to fall apart

Skipping the foil covering step, which can result in dried-out pasta

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pizza casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook pasta al dente and avoid over-saucing the casserole

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months

What's the best cheese to use?

Fresh mozzarella and Parmesan provide the most authentic pizza flavor

How do I know when it's done?

The cheese should be melted and golden, and the edges should be bubbling

Reviews

Sarah M.

Feb 20, 2026

This pizza casserole is absolutely incredible! My kids request it weekly now.

Michael P.

Mar 7, 2026

Great alternative to regular pizza. Added pepperoni and it was fantastic!

Jennifer K.

Feb 21, 2026

Perfect for busy weeknights and tastes just like pizza should.

Robert D.

Feb 22, 2026

Good basic recipe but needed more seasoning for my taste.

Emily T.

Mar 12, 2026

Amazing comfort food! The whole family loved it.