Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole is a simple, tasty dish that brings the flavors of pizza into a warm, cozy casserole form. It’s packed with gooey cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings all layered together, making it perfect for a quick dinner when you don’t want to fuss with dough or delivery.
I love making this casserole when the week gets busy because it comes together quickly and everyone in the family loves it. You can easily switch up the toppings depending on what you have on hand—pepperoni, veggies, or extra cheese all work great. It’s a fun way to enjoy pizza night without the mess or wait.
My favorite way to serve it is with a simple side salad or some crunchy garlic bread. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a little treat but is really easy to put on the table. Plus, it reheats well for leftovers, so it’s a winner for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using shell or rotini pasta here because they hold the sauce well. You can swap for penne or rigatoni if you prefer. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it becoming mushy after baking.
Ground Beef: This adds heartiness, but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Marinara/Pizza Sauce: A good sauce is key for that pizza flavor. If you don’t have jarred sauce, you can use canned crushed tomatoes mixed with some Italian herbs.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts perfectly and gives that classic pizza stretch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan mozzarella or a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different spin.
Toppings: Pepperoni, black olives, and mushrooms are classic. Customize with bell peppers, onions, or leftover cooked veggies. For spice lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
How Do I Layer and Bake This Casserole for the Best Flavor and Texture?
Layering is simple but important to get that nice balance of sauce, cheese, and toppings throughout. Here’s my go-to:
- Start with half of the pasta mixed with the sauce at the bottom. This keeps everything moist.
- Add a cheesy layer on top so the toppings stick and the casserole melts evenly.
- Sprinkle your pepperoni, olives, and mushrooms evenly for a great bite every time.
- Top with the remaining pasta, then cheese and extra pepperoni for a melty finish.
- Bake uncovered so the cheese bubbles and browns without getting soggy.
After baking, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the casserole firm up a bit and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta quickly and evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and mixing in the sauce.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – roomy enough to layer all the ingredients and bake evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the pasta and meat sauce without scratching your pan.
- Colander – makes draining the cooked pasta easy and fast.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, richer flavor.
- Add chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies and color.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a little kick.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms or black olives to boost the savory taste and texture.
Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (e.g., shell or rotini)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
From start to finish, this casserole takes about 40 minutes. You’ll spend 15 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and beef mixture, then about 25 minutes baking until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any busy weeknight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pasta:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef and Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with your spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Mix and Layer Your Casserole:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce until the pasta is evenly coated. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish, then spread half of the pasta mixture in the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.
4. Add Toppings and More Layers:
Next, evenly spread your pepperoni slices, black olives, and mushrooms over the cheese. Then add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Feel free to add a few extra pepperoni slices on top for a nice finish.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs if you like, and enjoy your easy, delicious pizza casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents extra moisture in the dish.
Can I Make the Pizza Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Use Different Toppings?
Of course! Feel free to swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, add bell peppers, spinach, or your favorite pizza toppings to suit your taste.
