Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole is a super simple, cheesy, and delicious dish that brings together all the best flavors of pizza in a comfy casserole form. Think gooey melted cheese, savory tomato sauce, pepperoni or your favorite toppings, and a crispy breadcrumb topping that makes every bite so satisfying. It’s like pizza and pasta had a cozy little baby that’s ready to eat in no time.
I love making this casserole when I want something quick but still special for dinner. It’s one of those go-to meals that everyone in the family will ask for again because it feels like a treat but is actually really easy to throw together. Plus, I usually keep some frozen veggies on hand to toss in so we get a little green with all the cheesy-ness. It feels like dinner and a little celebration rolled into one.
My favorite way to serve it is with a big side salad or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking but still want something warm and tasty on the table. Every time I make it, it reminds me of those cozy nights when you just want to relax and enjoy great food without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta holds sauce well because of its twists. If you don’t have rotini, try penne or rigatoni. Just pick something short with ridges.
Ground Beef: Provides a hearty taste. For a lighter option, swap with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for that stretchy, melty texture. You can use part provolone or even cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce: If unavailable, canned crushed tomatoes with herbs work fine. Just add a pinch of oregano and basil for a quick sauce fix.
Pepperoni and Olives: Classic pizza toppings that add spice and saltiness. Feel free to swap for sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked sausage.
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted and Bubbly?
Melting cheese just right can be tricky! Follow these tips to get gooey, bubbling, golden cheese on top:
- Bake uncovered at 375°F to let moisture escape, helping the cheese brown nicely.
- Layer cheese both under and on top of the pasta mixture for better coverage and melt.
- Don’t overload the casserole—too thick and the cheese might steam instead of melt.
- Keep an eye on the oven near the end; if needed, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to get golden spots quickly, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Enjoy learning this simple technique to make your pizza casserole look as good as it tastes!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; you want enough room so it doesn’t stick together.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing the mushrooms in one pan.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – gives plenty of space to layer and bake the casserole evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the meat and sauce without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning and sauce measurements.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add more spice and herby flavor.
- Use cooked shredded chicken instead of beef for a lighter, milder casserole.
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or a sprinkle of parmesan for a richer taste.
How to Make Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Meat Mixture:
- 12 oz rotini or other short pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to bake, making around 35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Pasta:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in boiling water following the package instructions until it’s just firm to the bite (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Meat and Mushrooms:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking it up into small pieces. When the beef is almost fully cooked, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re soft. Drain any extra fat.
3. Add Sauce and Herbs:
Stir marinara or pizza sauce into the meat and mushroom mixture. Add oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Mix Pasta and Sauce:
In a large bowl (or right in the skillet), combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture and stir until well mixed.
5. Layer the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish lightly. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the dish, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over it. Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Add Toppings and Bake:
Arrange pepperoni slices evenly across the top, then sprinkle the sliced black olives. Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side like a green salad or garlic bread.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef or Vegetables?
Yes! Just make sure to fully defrost and drain any excess liquid before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then pat dry with paper towels to avoid watery casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you want a different topping, try cooked Italian sausage, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cooked bacon. You can customize it to suit your favorite pizza flavors!
