PEPPERONI PIZZA CASSEROLE

🥘 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions, since it will bake later).
Drain, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef (or sausage) over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onions and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Let simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the dish.
Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading evenly.
Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Add a layer of pepperoni slices and any extra toppings you like.
Repeat layers with remaining pasta, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni.
Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and extra pepperoni slices for that pizza look.
4. Bake the Casserole

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving (this helps the casserole set).
🍽 Serving Suggestions

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness.
Serve with a side of garlic bread, breadsticks, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Offer crushed red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan at the table, just like pizzerias do.
🔑 Tips & Variations

Make it Meatless: Skip the beef and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Spicy Twist: Use spicy Italian sausage and top with jalapeños or hot banana peppers.
Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or cream cheese between the pasta layers for extra creaminess.
Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
Kid-Friendly: Let kids pick their favorite pizza toppings to sprinkle on top.
🕰 Storage & Freezer Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Assemble casserole but don’t bake. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap; freeze up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, covered, for about 1 hour, then uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
✅ This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a family-style dish that delivers all the flavors of pizza night in a hearty, baked form. It’s easy to prep ahead, feeds a crowd, and is endlessly customizable!