If you’re a fan of pepperoni pizza, you’ll love this Pepperoni Pizza Casserole recipe. It takes all the flavors of a classic pizza and transforms them into a delicious and easy-to-make casserole. With layers of pasta, savory marinara sauce, melted cheese, and pepperoni, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving some cheesy and comforting goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to enjoy a pizza-inspired casserole!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225g) penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces/680g) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 ounces (85g) sliced pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Break up the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- In the greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked penne pasta in an even layer.
- Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Arrange half of the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, cheeses, and pepperoni.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of a pepperoni pizza in a comforting casserole form.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite pizza toppings such as sliced bell peppers, black olives, or mushrooms. You can sauté them before adding them to the casserole for added flavor.
- Substitute the ground beef or Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use a combination of ground meats for more variety.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, use spicy pepperoni or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also experiment with other spicy ingredients like hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
- Experiment with different types of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of freshness.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze individual portions for future quick and easy meals.
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of pepperoni pizza in a convenient casserole form. With layers of pasta, savory marinara sauce, melted cheese, and delicious pepperoni, this dish is sure to be a hit with pizza lovers of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a cheesy and flavorful Pepperoni Pizza Casserole that will leave everyone wanting more!
