Pizza Pasta Casserole – A Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Recipe

Who doesn’t love the classic flavors of pizza and the comforting warmth of a baked pasta dish? This Pizza Pasta Casserole combines the best of both worlds into one irresistibly cheesy, hearty, and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight dinner at home.

Loaded with layers of melty cheese, tangy marinara, savory toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and peppers, this casserole is an all-in-one dish that’s as simple to make as it is to love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit your favorite flavors—whether you prefer it with extra veggies, creamy chicken, or classic beef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: This easy pasta dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: Like pizza, you can mix and match toppings to suit your preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Pasta, marinara sauce, and a few simple ingredients make this dish one of the most affordable pasta casserole recipes out there.
• Crowd Favorite: The flavors of pizza combined with the heartiness of baked pasta make it a winner for any gathering.

Ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 pound (16 oz) rotini, penne, or fusilli pasta
• 4 cups marinara or pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings (Pick Your Favorites!):

• 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (for beef casserole recipes)
• 1 cup diced cooked chicken (great for chicken pasta casserole)
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup sliced black olives
• 1 cup mushrooms, sautéed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese for added cheesiness

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mix

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Pasta Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the dish.
3. Add a layer of your chosen toppings, such as ground beef, chicken, pepperoni, or veggies.
4. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Add the remaining pasta mixture, another layer of toppings, and finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and any extra toppings.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Variations:

• Creamy Chicken Pasta: Swap out marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce and use shredded chicken as the protein for a decadent twist.
• Taco Sandwich Inspired: Add taco seasoning to the beef or chicken, and include jalapeños and cheddar cheese for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Classic Pizza Roll Flavor: Incorporate sliced pizza rolls as a topping for a fun, kid-friendly option.
• Veggie Lover’s Casserole: Pack it with roasted zucchini, eggplant, and spinach for a vegetarian delight.

Pro Tips:

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
• Freezer Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble it in a disposable aluminum pan, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Extra Cheese Layer: For a gooier, cheesier experience, mix some cheese directly into the pasta before layering.

Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion:

This baked pasta recipe is ideal for everything from casual weeknight meals to dinner parties. It’s one of those fast dinner recipes that everyone will love, and its make-ahead potential means it’s a lifesaver for busy households. Whether you’re craving something indulgent or just looking for a way to use up pantry staples, this casserole fits the bill.