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Easy Cheesy Pizza Casserole

A cozy baked pasta dish loaded with pizza flavors, melty cheese, and savory toppings. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and comforting weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Base
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups pizza sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • Topping
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until slightly firm. Drain.
  2. Brown ground beef or sausage with onion in a skillet. Stir in garlic and cook briefly.
  3. Add pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, pepper, mushrooms, and olives. Simmer for a few minutes.
  4. Combine pasta with the sauce mixture and spread into a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with mozzarella, cheddar, and pepperoni.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until the cheese melts and edges bubble.

Notes

  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
  • Swap meats or add vegetables for variety.
  • Extra pizza sauce keeps the casserole moist.