Pepperoni Pizza Casserole: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

Pepperoni pizza is a beloved classic, and this pepperoni pizza casserole takes all the flavors you love and transforms them into a comforting, family-friendly dish. It’s cheesy, saucy, and packed with pepperoni – the perfect weeknight meal! This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite pizza toppings to create a unique and satisfying casserole that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Family-Friendly:** Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors of pepperoni pizza in a fun and comforting casserole form.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable with your favorite pizza toppings, vegetables, and cheeses.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses affordable ingredients that are readily available.
* **Great for Leftovers:** This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Pasta:** 1 pound of pasta (penne, rotini, ziti, or elbow macaroni all work well)
* **Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (Optional):** 1 pound, browned and drained (for added protein and flavor)
* **Pepperoni:** 1 cup, sliced (plus extra for topping)
* **Pizza Sauce:** 24 ounces (your favorite brand)
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 3 cups, shredded (divided)
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated
* **Onion:** 1/2 cup, chopped
* **Green Bell Pepper:** 1/2 cup, chopped (optional)
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Italian Seasoning:** 1 teaspoon
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste

Equipment Needed

* Large pot
* Large skillet
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Colander
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect pepperoni pizza casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means the pasta should be cooked through but still firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the casserole.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables (Optional)

1. If using ground beef or Italian sausage, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet.
5. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat and vegetables (if using), sliced pepperoni (reserving some for topping), pizza sauce, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.
4. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and additional pepperoni slices.
7. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 20 minutes to heat through.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
4. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the casserole into squares and serve hot.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
3. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

* **Add Vegetables:** Get creative with your vegetables! Sautéed mushrooms, olives, spinach, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pizza sauce for an extra kick.
* **Make It Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also use vegetarian sausage crumbles.
* **Use Different Pasta Shapes:** Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rotini, ziti, and elbow macaroni all work well.
* **Add a Creamy Layer:** For an extra indulgent casserole, spread a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and some Italian seasoning over the pasta mixture before topping with mozzarella.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your pizza sauce is gluten-free to create a gluten-free version.
* **Make it Ahead:** Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Use a Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken:** For a quicker protein option, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken and add it to the casserole.
* **Add a Breadcrumb Topping:** Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole before baking for a crispy topping.

Serving Suggestions

This pepperoni pizza casserole is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the rich casserole.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crispy garlic bread is a classic pairing with pizza and pasta dishes.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and delicious side dishes.
* **Caesar Salad:** A Caesar salad adds a creamy and tangy element to the meal.
* **Fruit Salad:** A light and refreshing fruit salad is a great way to end the meal.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover pepperoni pizza casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

* **Oven:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Place a slice of casserole on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Skillet:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a slice of casserole and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients)
* Protein: 20-30 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe

Here’s the full recipe for you to easily print or save:

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, ziti, or elbow macaroni)
* 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional), browned and drained
* 1 cup sliced pepperoni, plus extra for topping
* 24 ounces pizza sauce
* 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
* 2 cloves minced garlic
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. If using ground beef or sausage, brown in a skillet. Drain excess grease. Add onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Cook until softened, 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat mixture (if using), sliced pepperoni (reserving some for topping), pizza sauce, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
6. Top with remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese and extra pepperoni slices. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!