Here’s a delicious Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole recipe that will bring the best of pizza and casserole into one irresistible dish!
Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 1/2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (optional for added richness)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup green bell peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the pizza sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine with pasta:
- Mix the cooked pasta into the beef mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spread the pasta and beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add toppings:
- Scatter the pepperoni, green peppers, black olives, and mushrooms evenly over the cheese.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the toppings for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden crust.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Optional Add-Ins:
- Crumbled sausage for more meatiness
- Red pepper flakes for some heat
- Fresh basil as a garnish for extra freshness
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck. It tastes just like pizza but is easier to prepare!