If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly dinner that you can prep ahead of time, this Pizza Casserole is perfect for you. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and the ability to freeze for later, this dish is a must-have for busy households. Whether you need a comforting meal for a weeknight dinner or something to bring to a potluck, this recipe delivers all the classic pizza flavors in a hearty, cheesy, baked pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for busy families – Make it ahead and freeze for those hectic nights.
Crowd-pleaser – The combination of pasta, cheese, and pepperoni is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.
Simple to prepare – No complicated steps, just easy layering and baking.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
6 oz pepperoni
3 cups mozzarella cheese
28 oz can of crushed tomatoes (or two 15 oz cans)
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
16 oz penne pasta
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Large pot for boiling pasta
9×13-inch baking dish
Colander for draining pasta
Aluminum foil
Measuring spoons and cups
Mixing spoon or spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Meat

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

To the browned meat, add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil the penne pasta according to package directions, but make sure to cook it al dente—it should still have a firm bite to it since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta well.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, then half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the pepperoni slices. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!

Freezing and Storage Instructions

To freeze:

Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake.
Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed.

To store leftovers:

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Make it spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
Low-carb version – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Vegetarian option – Skip the meat and add mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives.
Extra cheesy – Add ricotta cheese between the layers for a lasagna-style twist.

Perfect Pairings

Drinks:

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Classic lemonade for a kid-friendly option.
A cold beer such as an IPA or lager complements the cheesy flavors.

Side Dishes:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Side salad – A fresh Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the casserole.
Roasted vegetables – Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus make a great side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! You can use rotini, rigatoni, or any short pasta that holds sauce well.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure your pepperoni is dairy-free.

3. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover with foil while baking and don’t overcook the pasta before assembling.

4. Can I add extra veggies?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.

Final Thoughts

This Pizza Casserole is an easy, delicious meal that your whole family will love. It’s perfect for meal prep, freezing, and enjoying any night of the week. If you try this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more easy and delicious meal ideas.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

Easy Freezer Meal: Pizza Casserole