Description
This Baked Pasta Pizza Casserole combines the best of two comfort foods: pasta and pizza. Featuring penne pasta tossed in a flavorful pizza sauce with ground beef, Italian seasonings, and topped with classic pizza toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, and bell peppers, this casserole is baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that captures the spirit of Pizza Hut style in a hearty pasta bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni, cooked al dente)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (sliced, optional)
Cheeses and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 slices pepperoni (or preferred toppings)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together.
- Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onion is softened.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture, ensuring all pasta is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Layer Casserole: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Top with Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining pasta in an even layer. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then evenly distribute the pepperoni slices, black olives, chopped green bell pepper, and mushrooms.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or turkey for different flavor profiles.
- Feel free to add or omit vegetables such as black olives and mushrooms based on preference.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: pasta casserole, baked pasta, pizza casserole, Pizza Hut style pasta, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, baked penne
