Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole is the perfect union of two classic comfort foods—pizza and pasta. This dish blends the rich, savory flavors of pepperoni and ground beef with al dente rotini pasta, all tied together with a tangy marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, creating a casserole that’s both hearty and family-friendly.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an easy dinner recipe the whole family will love, Pizza Pasta Casserole delivers. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is designed to satisfy all your cravings for pizza while keeping the ease and heartiness of a pasta bake.

SAVE THIS!SAVE THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of pizza and pasta in one dish
• Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
• A complete meal in itself—hearty, cheesy, and satisfying
• Easily adaptable with your favorite pizza toppings or vegetarian substitutions
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead dinners

From the savory seasoned beef to the stringy mozzarella and zesty pepperoni, every bite is loaded with comforting flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To prepare this recipe efficiently, gather the following tools:

• Large pot: For cooking pasta
• Large skillet: To brown the ground beef and seasonings
• Mixing bowl: To combine all ingredients before baking
• 9×13-inch baking dish: For assembling and baking the casserole
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing and cooking
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate seasoning
• Cutting board and knife: To dice vegetables and chop pepperoni

Importance of Each Tool

Each tool has its role. A large pot ensures pasta cooks evenly without sticking. The skillet allows even browning of beef while infusing it with seasoning. A mixing bowl keeps all ingredients well distributed before baking. The 9×13-inch dish provides even cooking and the perfect surface area for topping and cheese browning.

Preparation Tips

• Cook pasta al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.
• Pre-chop vegetables and pepperoni to streamline the process.
• Drain the cooked beef thoroughly to avoid greasy results.
• Mix ingredients gently to preserve the pasta shape.
• Reserve 20 pepperoni slices for topping to create a visually appealing finish.

Optional: For softer texture and a sweeter flavor, sauté the bell pepper and onion with the beef in the skillet.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) box rotini pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 (6 oz) package pepperoni, chopped (reserve 20 slices)
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 36 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Toppings

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 20 whole pepperoni slices (reserved from the package)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, chopped pepperoni (reserving 20 slices), diced bell pepper, diced onion, marinara sauce, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese and 20 reserved pepperoni slices.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Optional Variations

• Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey.
• Swap marinara with pizza sauce for a deeper, more robust flavor.
• Add sliced black olives, mushrooms, or jalapeños for a fully loaded pizza feel.
• Use gluten-free pasta and certified gluten-free marinara to make the dish gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a one-dish meal that feels both comforting and satisfying. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping for busy schedules. Thanks to its bold pizza-inspired flavor, you can serve it simply or dress it up for a full Italian-style dinner experience.

Here are a few ideas for how to serve Pizza Pasta Casserole:

• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra savory touch.
• Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley to brighten the dish and add color.
• Drizzle with olive oil or garlic butter if you want a richer, more indulgent finish.
• Serve alongside a crisp side salad to balance the richness.
• Add a small bowl of crushed red pepper flakes on the side for spice lovers.

To elevate this simple casserole, serve it in individual ramekins or oven-safe dishes, which not only look great but help keep portions neat and easy to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the most out of this recipe, avoid these common errors that can affect flavor, texture, or consistency.

Overcooking the Pasta

Pasta continues to cook in the oven, so it’s important to boil it only until al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses structure during baking.

Tip: Always test the pasta a minute or two before the box instructions suggest. It should be firm but not hard.

Not Draining the Meat Properly

Ground beef releases fat during cooking. Failing to drain the excess grease results in a greasy casserole that can separate as it bakes.

Tip: Use a slotted spoon or drain the skillet through a fine mesh sieve over a bowl to remove excess fat.

Skipping the Vegetable Sauté

Raw bell pepper and onion add crunch and freshness, but their flavor can be overpowering if not softened. If you prefer a more mellow, blended flavor, sauté them briefly before mixing.

Tip: Add the diced pepper and onion to the skillet during the last few minutes of browning the beef.

Using Too Much Sauce

Excessive marinara or pizza sauce can lead to a watery or overly soupy casserole. While sauce is important for flavor, stick to the recommended amount unless adjusting other ingredients proportionally.

Tip: If you like it extra saucy, reduce the added sauce slightly and serve extra on the side.

Uneven Mixing

Improper mixing can lead to sections of the casserole that are dry or under-seasoned.

Tip: Use a large mixing bowl and toss gently with a spatula to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with sauce and cheese.

How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this dish is beginner-friendly, a few small upgrades can take it from good to great.

• Use fresh mozzarella for better melt and flavor. Shredded cheese is convenient, but fresh mozzarella melts creamier and tastes more authentic.
• Layer toppings strategically. Adding pepperoni slices on top after the initial bake keeps them crispy, rather than soggy.
• Let it rest before serving. After baking, let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing cleaner and easier.
• Choose a quality marinara or pizza sauce. Since the sauce is a core flavor, using a well-seasoned, thick sauce makes a noticeable difference.

For added texture, try sprinkling breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan on top before baking. This gives the dish a golden, slightly crispy finish.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Though Pizza Pasta Casserole stands strong on its own, pairing it with a side can round out your meal and add variety to the table. Here are eight great options that complement the dish’s flavors and textures.

1. Garlic Bread

The classic companion to any Italian-inspired pasta dish. Buttery, crunchy, and perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan offer a cool, refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Simple and healthy. Roasting brings out a slight sweetness in the broccoli that pairs nicely with the bold tomato and cheese flavors.

4. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil dressed in balsamic glaze make a light, elegant side.

5. Zucchini Fries

A healthier, low-carb option with a crispy bite. Serve with marinara for dipping to echo the main dish’s flavor profile.

6. Antipasto Platter

Marinated olives, artichokes, cured meats, and cheese cubes provide variety and offer something for every taste at the table.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms

Savory and satisfying, these bite-sized sides are a great addition to any Italian-inspired dinner spread.

8. Tomato Basil Soup

A warm and cozy complement to the cheesy casserole. The flavors blend beautifully, especially in colder months.

Each of these side dishes enhances the main casserole while providing a mix of textures, temperatures, and flavor profiles. Whether you’re keeping things simple or planning a more formal dinner, these additions will elevate your Pizza Pasta Casserole night.

Recipe Tips for Success

Getting a delicious, restaurant-quality Pizza Pasta Casserole at home doesn’t require professional skills. However, a few expert tips can make a big difference in flavor, texture, and presentation.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using high-quality marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and crisp vegetables ensures the flavors shine through. If possible, avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.

Season in Layers

Don’t rely on the marinara sauce alone to season the dish. Season the beef while it browns, and taste the sauce before mixing to adjust salt or herbs. Balanced seasoning throughout the dish prevents blandness.

Cook Pasta Just Until Al Dente

Pasta will continue to cook during baking. Boiling it until just al dente keeps it from becoming mushy. Drain well and avoid rinsing to help sauce cling better.

Add Toppings Late

Reserving the pepperoni and some of the mozzarella cheese for the final few minutes of baking creates a crisp, golden top layer. This step adds visual appeal and texture.

Let It Rest Before Serving

Allowing the casserole to rest for five to ten minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes it easier to cut clean portions. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld.

Storage Instructions

Pizza Pasta Casserole stores well, making it perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or freezer meals.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the texture intact, avoid storing it uncovered, which can cause the pasta to dry out.

Freezer Storage

To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to two months.

If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap well, and freeze. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating Instructions

Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes for a crispier top.

Microwave

Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover lightly and heat in 60-second intervals, stirring gently if needed. Heat until fully warmed through.

Air Fryer

For crispy edges, reheat individual slices in an air fryer at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes. This method is especially useful if you enjoy a firmer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

What are the best substitutes for ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat substitutes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Rotini holds sauce well, but penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli work just as well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, which do not layer well in casseroles.

Is it okay to use pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes. Pizza sauce is typically thicker and more seasoned. It gives a stronger pizza flavor, which can be a delicious twist on the original version.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your marinara or pizza sauce is certified gluten-free. Most other ingredients, like cheese and pepperoni, are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Pasta Casserole is a satisfying, family-friendly meal that brings together the best of two beloved comfort foods. With rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatile ingredients, this dish offers everything you need for a stress-free dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, prepping for a busy week, or simply craving something cheesy and warm, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, with customizable toppings and simple variations, it’s easy to make it your own.

Thanks to its freezer-friendly nature and simple reheating, it also becomes a reliable go-to meal in your regular rotation. Keep it classic or get creative with toppings—either way, you’ll have a dish that delivers every time.

For more easy weeknight dinners and casserole ideas, explore our collection of baked pasta recipes or check out our one-pan meal guide for more inspiration.