Pizza Casserole
Ingredients:
12 oz rotini or penne pasta
2 cups pizza sauce
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
1/4 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes for flavor. Stir well.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pizza sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the cooked ground beef. Stir until well mixed.
Layer the Casserole:
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly, then top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese. Layer the pepperoni slices, bacon bits, black olives, green bell peppers, mushrooms, or any other desired pizza toppings.
Bake:
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Let the pizza casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 550 per serving | Servings: 6