Spread the love

Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that combines all the flavors of pizza in one dish? The Best Pizza Casserole is your answer! This baked delight layers pasta, marinara sauce, pepperoni, and a blend of melty cheeses for a dish that’s cheesy, savory, and irresistibly comforting. It’s quick to prep, perfect for weeknight dinners, and loved by kids and adults alike!

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Read my very boring disclosure for more information.

If you love pizza but want an easier, family-friendly way to enjoy it, The Best Pizza Casserole is your new go-to recipe. Imagine all your favorite pizza flavors baked into one hearty casserole, complete with tender pasta, savory meats, and melty cheese that stretches with every bite. I love making this dish for busy weeknights because it’s simple, satisfying, and always disappears fast!

This is a pinnable post. Tap or hover over any image in this post to pin to your Pinterest Boards.

Image illustrates a Pinterest pin of pizza casserole.

Recipe Tutorial for The Best Pizza Casserole

Ingredients

Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your preference.
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini) – Cooks perfectly to hold sauce and cheese.
2 cups marinara sauce – Rich and flavorful; homemade or store-bought works.
1 cup cooked Italian sausage – Adds savory, meaty flavor. I use meat alternative options as a vegetarian!
1 cup pepperoni slices – Classic pizza topping for extra flavor.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, gooey goodness.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional) – Adds color and crunch.
1 tsp dried oregano – Classic Italian herb to enhance flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta and Sauce

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat the marinara sauce and Italian sausage together for 3–5 minutes. Add bell peppers if using.

Assembling the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta.
Spread half of the sauce and meat mixture over the pasta.
Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and half the Parmesan cheese on top.
Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses. Finish with a layer of pepperoni on top.

Baking the Pizza Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

The Best Pizza Casserole is an easy, delicious way to enjoy pizza flavors without the hassle of making individual pies. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need comfort food that everyone loves. Every bite is cheesy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying!

Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed before serving.

2. Can I freeze the pizza casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the sausage and pepperoni and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

4. Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! Try a blend of mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar for a unique twist.

Pizza Casserole

The Best Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, cheesy baked dish that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into one easy-to-make meal. Layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, savory Italian sausage, pepperoni, and a blend of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese come together in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave comfort food, this casserole is quick to prep, bakes to perfection in just 30 minutes, and is loved by kids and adults alike!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Servings 8 servings

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup cooked Italian sausage (use vegetarian options if desired!)
1 cup pepperoni slices (use vegetarian options if desired!)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook pasta until al dente and drain.
Heat marinara sauce and sausage (and bell peppers if using) in a skillet.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer half the pasta, sauce mixture, and cheeses. Repeat layers. Top with pepperoni.
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes, remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbly.
Let cool 5 minutes, then serve.