Pizza casserole combines the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting satisfaction of a baked casserole. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s a versatile recipe, easy to prepare, and sure to become a staple in your household.

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Ingredients Needed

To create this mouthwatering pizza casserole, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture:

Egg Noodles: These noodles serve as the base of the casserole, providing a sturdy and satisfying component that holds the dish together.
Lean Ground Beef: This protein-packed ingredient adds depth and richness to the casserole.
Onion and Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables like onions and bell peppers contribute a lovely crunch and sweetness, balancing the savory elements.
Garlic: Minced garlic offers an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Pizza Sauce: The heart of the pizza flavor, this sauce binds all the ingredients together.
Pepperoni Sausage: Sliced pepperoni introduces a classic pizza element, adding a bit of spice and texture.
Milk: A small amount of milk ensures the casserole remains moist and cohesive.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that’s irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this pizza casserole is straightforward, involving just a few simple steps:

Preparing the Egg Noodles: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the egg noodles and cook them until al dente, approximately 7 to 9 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Cooking the Beef and Vegetables: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, combine the lean ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook and stir for about 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat to ensure a non-greasy casserole.
Combining Ingredients: Mix the cooked egg noodles with the browned beef mixture in the skillet. Stir in the pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and milk until everything is well combined.
Baking the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 20 minutes.
Adding the Cheese Topping: After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to cut into portions. Enjoy your delicious and comforting pizza casserole!

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for cooking the noodles to the right texture: Ensure the noodles are al dente by testing them a minute before the recommended cooking time. They should be firm yet tender, perfect for baking.

Suggestions for draining excess fat from the beef: Use a colander or tilt the skillet and spoon out the excess fat. This keeps the casserole from becoming greasy.

How to ensure the casserole bakes evenly: Spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish and avoid overfilling. This ensures uniform baking and prevents spillage.

Alternative ingredients for dietary preferences: For a healthier twist, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Opt for vegan cheese and meat substitutes for a vegetarian or vegan version.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this casserole?: Yes, freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What other meats can I use instead of ground beef?: Sausage, ground chicken, or turkey work well. Each adds a unique flavor profile to the dish.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?: Use plant-based meat substitutes and dairy-free cheese to create a vegetarian-friendly version.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Pair your pizza casserole with these delicious side dishes to complete the meal:

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds a crunchy, buttery element.
Caesar Salad: Fresh and crisp, it complements the rich casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: A healthy addition that balances the meal.
Wine Pairings: A robust red wine like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the casserole.

Variations and Add-Ons

Explore creative twists on the original recipe to keep things exciting:

Adding mushrooms or olives: Introduces earthiness and additional texture.
Using different types of cheese: Experiment with cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend for a unique flavor.
Incorporating different meats like sausage or chicken: Adds variety and keeps the dish interesting.
Making it spicier with jalapeños or hot sauce: Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

This pizza casserole is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of pizza to a comforting casserole form. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Try this recipe and share it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our blog for more culinary inspiration!

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked egg noodles
½ pound lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
16 ounces pizza sauce
1 cup sliced pepperoni sausage
¼ cup milk
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add the egg noodles. Cook them until they are al dente, approximately 7 to 9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to prepare for baking.
In a medium skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook and stir for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and crumbly. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Combine the cooked egg noodles with the browned beef mixture. Stir in the pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and milk until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious and comforting pizza casserole!