Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is the perfect fusion of pizza and pasta, combining the rich flavors of ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and zesty pizza sauce into a comforting baked dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and a golden-brown cheesy topping, it’s a meal that satisfies both pizza and pasta lovers alike.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir in pizza sauce and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook rotini or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked pasta.
3. Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the pasta, spreading evenly.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Arrange pepperoni slices, diced bell peppers, and olives on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh basil.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• For extra crunch, add crushed garlic croutons or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping ground beef for mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.

This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of pizza and pasta in one dish. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite! 🍕🧀

For more variations, check out this Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole recipe or another version.