CHEESY BEEF PIZZA CASSEROLE

Introduction

Craving pizza but want something a bit heartier? This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole combines all the best pizza flavors with comforting pasta and plenty of gooey cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pizza sauce
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti works best)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced olives, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
2. Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
2. Transfer half of the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Add half of the pepperoni slices.
3. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and pepperoni slices.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra toppings if desired.

Tips

• Meat options: Swap ground beef for sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
• Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheese blends like provolone or parmesan for extra flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready to serve.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 36g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings the joy of pizza and pasta into one dish. It’s cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for satisfying a crowd or indulging in leftovers. Give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table!