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Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe

Pizza Pasta Casserole Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 14 reviews

This Pizza Pasta Casserole blends rich Italian flavors with hearty pasta and cheesy goodness, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Ground beef, Italian sausage, and a medley of seasonings simmer in marinara and pizza sauce, layered with penne pasta, mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese for an irresistible casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Protein

  • ½ lb lean ground beef
  • ½ lb ground Italian sausage
  • 20 slices pepperoni

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • ½ large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Sauces

  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 32 oz jar marinara sauce
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp hot sauce

Dry Herbs & Spices

  • 2 tsp dried basil
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tsp paprika powder
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes

Dairy

  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Extra Parmesan for garnish

Pasta & Garnish

  • ¾ lb penne pasta
  • Parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta: Preheat your oven to 380°F (193°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil to cook the penne pasta.
  2. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Add the penne pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1 minute so it remains al dente, ensuring it retains firmness during baking.
  3. Cook Meats and Onion: While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat starts to brown and onion softens.
  4. Add Bell Peppers: Incorporate the diced green bell pepper into the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the meat is thoroughly browned. Drain excess grease from the pan to avoid a greasy casserole.
  5. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and use a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the pan’s bottom to enhance flavor. Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, dried basil, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute to release the aromas.
  6. Simmer with Sauces: Add the marinara sauce and pizza sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the meat mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  7. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture to add a rich, savory depth.
  8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the meat sauce mixture.
  9. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta and meat mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly on top, then arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
  10. Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking oil to prevent sticking, then cover the casserole dish with this foil to avoid cheese sticking during baking.
  11. Bake Covered: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to melt the cheese and heat through.
  12. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
  13. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Pizza Pasta Casserole.

Notes

  • Cooking pasta 1 minute less than package instructions helps it hold texture after baking.
  • Draining excess fat from cooked meat prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.
  • Oiling the underside of the foil helps prevent cheese sticking and tearing when removing.
  • You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option if preferred.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicier casserole.
  • Feel free to add sliced mushrooms or olives for additional flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza pasta casserole, baked pasta dish, Italian casserole, cheesy pasta bake, ground beef pasta casserole

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/pizza-pasta-casserole-recipe-4/