Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole

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If you’re looking for a hearty meal that combines the best flavors of pizza and pasta, look no further than this Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole! This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With layers of ground beef, pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese, it’s a comforting and delicious option that brings together all the favorite elements of a pizza in one easy-to-prepare casserole.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. Ground beef (or lamb) provides a savory base, while the combination of marinara sauce and Italian seasoning infuses each bite with rich flavor. Adding cooked pasta makes the dish filling, and the generous layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese guarantee a gooey, cheesy topping that everyone will love. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite pizza toppings, making it suitable for different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients

  • Meat and Veggies:
  • 500g ground beef (or lamb)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • Pasta and Sauces:
  • 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
  • Cheese:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (halal if needed)
  • Miscellaneous:
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Season the Mixture: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If using, add the chopped bell peppers and black olives. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara or pizza sauce. Add the cooked beef mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Add Cheese Toppings: Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  3. Add Pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring each bite will have a piece of pepperoni.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish!

Helpful Tips for Recipe Success

  • Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Cook your pasta slightly less than the package instructions, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, spinach, or cooked sausage.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
  • Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 500
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 30g

Time Required

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6

This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines familiar flavors into a unique and satisfying dish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!

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