Description
Pizza Pasta Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines the best flavors of pizza with creamy, saucy pasta layered with melted cheese and savory toppings. Perfect for cozy nights, this casserole is a family favorite that satisfies with gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, and customizable ingredients that cater to all tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz cooked penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings
- 20–25 slices pepperoni (or substitute with cooked sausage, vegetables, or vegetarian options)
- Optional veggies: 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce and toppings.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer gently to deepen the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Thoroughly mix the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the marinara blend.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the saucy pasta into a greased baking dish. Scatter pepperoni slices and optional veggies evenly across the top, then spread shredded mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over everything.
- Bake Until Bubbling: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle and the dish is easier to slice into portions.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking pasta as it will continue to soften during baking.
- Use a generous layer of cheese for a gooey, irresistible crust.
- Add fresh basil or oregano after baking for bright, lifted flavors.
- Don’t skimp on sauce to keep the pasta moist and flavorful.
- Preheat the oven fully to ensure even cheese melting and a crispy edge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg