Easy Weeknight Pizza Pasta Casserole: The Ultimate Family Dinner!
Imagine bringing together two of the world’s most beloved comfort foods: savory pizza and hearty pasta. That’s exactly what our incredible **Pizza Pasta Casserole** delivers! This recipe is a true game-changer for busy weeknights, offering all the mouthwatering flavors of your favorite pepperoni pizza baked into a satisfying pasta dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds, especially the kids! Packed with tender noodles, zesty pizza sauce, spicy pepperoni, generous amounts of gooey cheese, and wholesome vegetables, this casserole is a complete meal that’s both fun and incredibly delicious. Forget the debate between pizza night and pasta night – with this easy baked pasta, you get the best of both worlds in one convenient, flavorful dish.
Bursting with an irresistible combination of savory tastes, this simple yet spectacular Pizza Pasta recipe is generously loaded with vibrant bell peppers, classic spicy pepperoni slices, layers of rich, melty cheese, and a perfect blend of aromatic Italian seasoning. Each forkful is a delightful explosion of flavors that will transport you straight to your favorite pizzeria, but from the comfort of your own home.
This dish is truly a parent’s secret weapon. It’s one of those rare meals that consistently bypasses the dreaded “ew” factor from even the pickiest eaters. What child doesn’t adore pasta? And who can resist the allure of pizza? By ingeniously combining these two universal favorites, our **Baked Pizza Pasta** becomes an instant hit. You’ll watch with satisfaction as smiles light up around the dinner table, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Beyond its incredible taste, one of the greatest advantages of this delightful recipe is its simplicity and speed. It comes together in a remarkably short amount of time, making it ideal for those hectic weekday evenings. For even greater convenience, you can easily prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it into the oven when you walk through the door. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread to complete a wholesome and satisfying meal that the entire family will eagerly anticipate!
The best part? This mouthwatering casserole bakes to cheesy perfection in under 30 minutes. That means dinner is truly D-O-N-E, DONE, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy the evening with your loved ones.
Casserole recipes are absolute lifesavers, especially when your schedule is packed! They offer comfort, convenience, and often require minimal cleanup. If you love the idea of easy, hearty baked dishes, be sure to explore these other fantastic casserole creations: Tuna Spaghetti & Stuffed Pepper Skillet. These are perfect for adding more stress-free deliciousness to your weekly meal rotation.
The Perfect Pairing: Do Pizza and Pasta Truly Go Together?
Absolutely, without a doubt! Pizza and pasta are not just compatible; they are a match made in culinary heaven, pairing together beautifully to create a hearty, intensely flavorsome, and utterly satisfying meal. Think about it: both are staples of Italian-American comfort food, built on foundations of rich tomato sauce, savory meats, fresh vegetables, and decadent cheese. This dish simply brings those beloved elements into a harmonious, scoopable form.
At its core, pizza pasta is an innovative dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta generously mixed with robust pizza sauce and all your favorite pizza toppings, then baked to golden perfection. The beauty of this concept lies in its incredible versatility. This means you can truly have fun experimenting with your ingredients and making it uniquely your own! Do you love the briny bite of black olives on your pizza? Go ahead and toss them in! Prefer mushrooms, sausage, or even pineapple (if you’re feeling adventurous)? The options are genuinely only limited by your imagination and, of course, your personal favorite pizza toppings. On this particular occasion, I prepared it using a selection of ingredients I already had on hand: some vibrant red and green bell peppers for color and crunch, sweet onion, savory ground beef, and classic pepperoni slices. The result was a spectacularly balanced and delicious meal.
The customization doesn’t stop at toppings. You can also play with different pasta shapes to achieve various textures and mouthfeels. While wide egg noodles offer a wonderfully comforting and tender base, feel free to switch things up! Consider using hearty rotini, tubular penne, charming bow tie pasta, or even ziti. Each shape holds the sauce and toppings differently, offering a unique experience. For those looking for a healthier option, whole wheat pasta is also a fantastic choice, adding extra fiber and a nutty flavor. And for spice enthusiasts, don’t hesitate to elevate the heat with a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes. There truly is no wrong way to make this magnificent and adaptable recipe – it’s all about tailoring it to your family’s preferences!
Essential Ingredients for Your Baked Pizza Pasta Adventure
This incredible casserole relies on a handful of straightforward, delicious ingredients that you likely already have stashed away in your refrigerator or pantry, making it an ideal last-minute meal! For precise measurements and quantities, please refer to the detailed recipe card located further down this page.
- Egg Noodles: For this hearty pizza casserole, I personally love the comforting texture and shape of wide egg noodles, which absorb the sauce beautifully. However, the beauty of this dish is its flexibility! Feel free to use any pasta shape your family prefers. Excellent alternatives include rotini pasta, penne pasta, or even ziti – all good choices that will hold up well in a bake!
- Lean Ground Beef: Our recipe calls for lean ground beef to provide a robust, savory base. If you’re looking to lighten the dish or explore different flavors, you can easily substitute ground chicken or ground turkey. For an added layer of Italian flair and a touch of sweetness with a hint of spice, sweet Italian sausage would also be a wonderfully flavorful addition to this recipe!
- Onion: A staple in so many savory dishes, onion adds a foundational layer of aromatic flavor. Use whatever variety you have readily available. I typically reach for a sweet onion for its mildness, but a red onion can also provide a nice, sharper counterpoint.
- Green Onions: These are primarily used for their fresh, slightly pungent flavor and vibrant color, often added towards the end or as a garnish to brighten the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. Adjust them to your personal liking and taste preference throughout the cooking process.
- Garlic: The unmistakable aroma and bold flavor of garlic are essential for an authentic Italian-inspired dish. You can mince fresh cloves of garlic yourself for the freshest taste, or take a convenient shortcut by using pre-minced garlic from a jar.
- Green and Red Bell Peppers: These colorful vegetables add a delightful crunch, a touch of sweetness, and essential nutrients. While red and green peppers are my go-to choice for their classic appeal and vibrant contrast, feel free to use any color of bell pepper you like, such as yellow or orange.
- Pepperoni: No pizza pasta would be complete without pepperoni! Whether you opt for mini pepperonis for a more even distribution or regular pepperoni slices cut in half, they provide that signature salty, spicy, and slightly smoky flavor. For a leaner option, turkey pepperoni works wonderfully and still delivers that beloved taste.
- Pizza Sauce: The heart of the “pizza” flavor comes from the sauce. A good quality jarred pizza sauce is perfectly convenient for this recipe. Alternatively, feel free to use your favorite jarred pasta sauce like marinara, or, if you have the time, impress your family by making your own homemade marinara sauce from scratch!
- Milk: A small amount of milk helps to create a creamy texture and bind the ingredients together, ensuring the casserole isn’t dry and contributes to a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- Shredded Pizza Cheese Blend: This is where the magic happens! A pre-shredded pizza cheese blend, typically a mix of mozzarella and provolone, offers the perfect melt and stretch. You can also achieve fantastic results by combining freshly shredded Mozzarella cheese with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.
Crafting Your Easy Pizza Pasta Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delightful pizza pasta bake is remarkably straightforward, even for novice cooks! Each step is designed for simplicity and maximum flavor. For a more detailed breakdown of each instruction, including exact measurements and cooking tips, please scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card below.
PREP: Get Ready to Bake
Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking vessel. Lightly spray a two-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray, or for a richer flavor, brush the inside gently with a thin layer of olive oil. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring an easy cleanup.
SET: Perfect Pasta Base
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your chosen pasta until it reaches the ideal al dente stage. This means it should be firm to the bite, yet cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once al dente, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. A quick rinse with cold water can prevent it from sticking together if you’re not immediately combining it.
BROWN: Sauté the Savory Foundation
In a large skillet, placed over medium-high heat, add your lean ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef begins to brown, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Continue to sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the ground beef is fully cooked through and beautifully browned. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking during this stage, enhancing all the savory flavors.
DRAIN: Remove Excess Grease
After browning, it’s important to drain any excess grease from the skillet. This prevents your casserole from becoming oily and ensures a cleaner, more enjoyable texture. You can carefully tip the skillet to pour out the grease or use a spoon to scoop it out.
HEAT: Integrate the Pepperoni
Return the skillet to the heat (if you removed it) and add the pepperoni slices to the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir well and heat through for a few minutes. This step allows the pepperoni to release its delicious oils and slightly crisp up, infusing the entire mixture with its signature flavor.
STIR: Create the Flavorful Sauce
Pour in the rich pizza sauce and the measured milk into the skillet with the meat and pepperoni. Stir all the ingredients vigorously to ensure they are thoroughly combined. The milk helps to smooth out the sauce and adds a touch of creaminess, making for a beautifully cohesive base for your pasta.
FOLD: Combine with Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked al dente pasta to the skillet. Gently fold it into the flavorful sauce mixture, ensuring every noodle is coated. Then, add about half of the shredded pizza cheese blend. Continue to fold gently until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the pasta and begins to melt into the warm sauce, adding another layer of irresistible flavor and texture.
TOP: Final Cheese Layer
Carefully transfer the entire pasta mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Now, generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This final layer will melt into a golden, bubbling crust, creating that iconic baked pizza look and taste.
MELT & SERVE: Bake to Perfection
Place the covered casserole dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Covering it helps to ensure the pasta heats through evenly and prevents the top from browning too quickly. After 20 minutes, uncover the dish and continue to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and has started to turn a delectable golden brown. Once perfectly baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot.
GARNISH: The Finishing Touch
For an extra burst of freshness and a beautiful presentation, feel free to garnish your warm pizza pasta casserole with some vibrant fresh herbs. A sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley or torn fresh basil leaves adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the dish.
STORE: Enjoying Later & Freezing Tips
This recipe makes for fantastic leftovers! Allow any remaining pizza pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring you have delicious, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. This recipe also freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping. To freeze, divide cooled casserole into individual portions or larger freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave. This flexibility makes it an even greater asset to your busy schedule!
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If this deliciously savory and incredibly easy pizza pasta dish sounds like a winner for your family, don’t let it get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for future meal planning. Pin it directly to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go, so you can easily find it whenever that pizza craving strikes!
More Creative Ways to Enjoy Pizza Flavors
Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that almost universally brings joy and satisfies cravings across all ages. Most families can wholeheartedly get behind the irresistible appeal of pizza. If you’re a fan of those iconic pizza flavors and looking for exciting new ways to incorporate them into your cooking beyond this fantastic casserole, explore these creative and delicious ideas:
- Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese (pictured above) – A delightful fusion of two comfort food giants, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Detroit Style Pizza – Experience the deep-dish, crispy-crust perfection of this regional favorite right in your own kitchen.
- Pizza Dip – All the incredible flavors of pizza transformed into a warm, gooey, dippable appetizer that’s perfect for parties.
- Reuben Pizza – An unexpected but utterly delicious twist, combining classic Reuben sandwich ingredients with a pizza base.
- Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pizza – A sophisticated and creamy vegetarian pizza option inspired by the beloved dip.
And if you’re like us and can’t get enough of convenient and delicious baked dishes, here are even more amazing Casseroles to Love and add to your repertoire:
- Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole – A breakfast-for-dinner or side dish sensation loaded with cheese and potatoes.
- 4 Ingredient Hamburger Casserole – Unbelievably simple and satisfying, perfect for the busiest evenings.
- Chicken & Doritos Casserole – A fun, flavorful, and crunchy dish that’s sure to be a family favorite.
- Skillet Tamale Pie – A comforting, south-of-the-border inspired meal baked to perfection in a skillet.
- Garlic Bread Casserole – Transform classic garlic bread into an irresistible, cheesy casserole side.
There you have it – one truly delicious dinner that is so easy-peasy to make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner! It’s quick, it’s customizable, and it’s undeniably a hit with everyone. Now that you’re well-versed in the delicious details and flexible options, let’s dive into the full recipe details and get cooking!
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Print Recipe
Pizza Pasta
Equipment
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9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 1 12 ounce package of egg noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- Tops of 4 green onions
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup bell pepper chopped, I usually use both red and green
- 1 cup pepperoni sliced in half, I like to use Turkey pepperoni
- 1 15 ounce can of pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded Pizza Blend Cheese
- Optional Garnish: fresh basil and/or fresh Italian parsley
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 C) and generously spray a two-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the other components.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once the beef is partially browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened, stirring occasionally. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
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Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to ensure your casserole isn’t overly oily.
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Add the pepperoni to the meat and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir thoroughly and heat through for a few minutes, allowing the pepperoni to release its flavors.
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Pour in the pizza sauce and milk. Stir all ingredients well to combine, creating a cohesive and flavorful sauce.
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Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Then, add half of the shredded pizza blend cheese, folding until evenly distributed and just starting to melt.
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Transfer the entire pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously over the top.
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Bake the casserole, covered, for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melty, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot and enjoying!
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on October 24, 2014. It has been thoroughly updated to improve user experience, enhance clarity, add valuable tips, and was proudly re-shared on September 15, 2022.