Description
Supreme Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Stir in pizza sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in a baking dish.
Top with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, and black olives.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 480 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the penne pasta to al dente, as it will soften further while baking. In your skillet, ensure the Italian sausage is fully browned and crumbled before draining the fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy final dish. When combining the pasta and meat sauce, toss them gently in the baking dish to ensure every piece is coated. Layer your toppings strategically: first the cheeses, then distribute the pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives evenly. For extra crispiness, add a final handful of cheese on top of the toppings. Bake on the middle rack until the cheese is golden and the edges are bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true pizza-parlor experience, serve with garlic breadsticks or cheesy bread. A cool dollop of ricotta or a side of ranch dressing for dipping also makes a fantastic addition. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer to maintain texture.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta and brown sausage. Mix sausage with sauce and seasoning, then combine with pasta in a dish. Top with cheeses, pepperoni, olives, and mushrooms. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Rigatoni, ziti, or rotini are excellent choices as their shapes hold sauce well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the sausage and pepperoni. Use plant-based meat crumbles or add more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and artichoke hearts.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or, for best results, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this pizza casserole? It freezes well after baking. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook only to al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
- Not draining sausage fat: This can make the final dish overly greasy.
- Using too much sauce: Stick to the recommended amount; excess sauce will make the casserole soggy.
- Overcrowding toppings: Distribute toppings evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Underseasoning: Taste the meat sauce before combining with pasta and adjust seasoning if needed.
Conclusion
This Supreme Pizza Casserole is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods, delivering all the iconic flavors of a loaded pizza in a hearty, easy-to-serve pasta bake. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family. With simple ingredients and customizable toppings, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!