Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a delicious, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe. This dish perfectly blends all the irresistible flavors of classic pizza into a hearty and cheesy baked pasta casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. It combines seasoned meat, tangy sauce, gooey mozzarella, and pepperoni, creating a flavor explosion that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving an indulgent weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe feels like collecting a handful of kitchen essentials that come together effortlessly to create an unforgettable dish. Each component adds its own signature note—from the savory richness of the ground meat to the vibrant zip of Italian seasoning and the melty goodness of cheeses, all harmonizing perfectly with the pasta.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: This forms the hearty protein base, bringing flavor and texture to the casserole.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a tender bite that complements the meat perfectly.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and that unmistakable home-cooked flavor.
- 1 jar (24 oz) pizza or marinara sauce: The saucy heart of the dish that imparts tang and herbs throughout.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that elevates the whole casserole with classic Italian flair.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or penne recommended): These pasta shapes hold sauce wonderfully and offer just the right chew.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melted, stretchy cheese that makes every bite gratifying.
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni: Adds smoky, spicy bursts and that familiar pizza character.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp finishing touch with a salty punch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and bringing all the flavors together smoothly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning essentials to round out the flavors precisely.
How to Make Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by heating up a pot of salted water and cooking your chosen pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. This is important so the pasta holds its shape and texture once baked. Once done, drain it well and set it aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook gently until soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, stirring quickly to release its fragrant aroma without burning. Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns evenly. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Seasonings
Pour in the jar of pizza or marinara sauce and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the meat mixture. Stir well, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together. Add salt and pepper as you like, then let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly and deepen its taste.
Step 4: Mix Pasta with Meat Sauce and Cheese
In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked pasta with the savory meat sauce. Stir in one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to add extra creaminess throughout. This step ensures the cheese melts throughout the casserole, not just on top.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the surface, followed by the sliced pepperoni and a generous dusting of Parmesan. Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the flavor and presentation, try sprinkling some fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving can also add an inviting finish that makes everyone’s mouth water.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some garlicky steamed broccoli. A basket of crunchy breadsticks or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce, making the meal feel extra complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets to give each person their own cheesy, pizza-flavored masterpiece. You can even add a layer of sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers inside before baking, making it a customizable, crowd-pleasing dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to prep in advance. Assemble it in a freezer-safe container but hold off on baking. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This is a lifesaver for busy days when you crave comfort food with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or pop the entire dish into a 350°F oven, covered with foil, to keep it moist. A few minutes uncovered at the end will refresh the cheese topping to that perfect gooey, melty state everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne hold the sauce best, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian version of Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe?
Yes! Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or a plant-based sausage alternative. The sauce and cheese combo still delivers that classic pizza flavor without meat.
How spicy is this casserole?
It’s typically mild, but if you like a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or choose spicy Italian sausage instead of mild ground beef.
Can I make this recipe ahead and freeze it before baking?
Yes, this recipe freezes wonderfully before baking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, then freeze. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers so the cheese stays melty?
Reheat in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, then uncover for the last few minutes to melt and brown the cheese perfectly.
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe a try soon because it brings that perfect blend of comforting, cheesy, and hearty flavors that make dinner feel special without the fuss. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebratory meal on any night of the week, and I promise it just might become your go-to family favorite as well. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Mama’s Pizza Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Mama’s Pizza Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make baked pasta dish that combines savory ground beef or Italian sausage with classic pizza flavors like marinara sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole brings all the deliciousness of pizza in a hearty, cheesy pasta bake.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or penne)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Cook Meat and Garlic: Add minced garlic and ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the pizza or marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese, sliced pepperoni, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set and to avoid burns.
Notes
- You can customize this casserole by mixing in your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking for a convenient and quick weeknight dinner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
