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Pizza Pasta Casserole

Pizza Pasta Casserole
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This easy and comforting Pizza Pasta Casserole combines the best of pizza and pasta into a quick, cheesy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features tender pasta, melty cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and classic toppings like pepperoni and sautéed vegetables for a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Sauce

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 ½ cups pizza sauce (jarred or homemade)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Meat

  • 1 cup pepperoni slices

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion, diced

Seasoning & Oils

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil 12 oz of penne or rotini pasta in salted water until al dente to avoid mushiness after baking. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, 1 ½ cups pizza sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and half of the cheese blend (½ cup mozzarella and ½ cup cheddar) to the skillet with vegetables. Stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  4. Add Pepperoni: Mix in 1 cup of pepperoni slices evenly. For variations, substitute with mushrooms, olives, spinach, or cooked meats as desired.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese blend. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent a soggy casserole.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano as a garnish to enhance flavor.
  • Always sauté onions and peppers beforehand to release their natural sweetness.
  • Blend different cheeses for ideal melting and flavor balance.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza pasta casserole, baked pasta, easy dinner, family meal, comfort food, cheesy casserole, weeknight recipe, Italian-American

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/pizza-pasta-casserole/