Here’s a delicious and comforting recipe for Cheesy Beef Pizza C casserole! It’s the perfect blend of pizza flavors and a casserole-style dish, making it ideal for a family meal or potluck. This cheesy, hearty casserole features ground beef, pizza sauce, pasta, and plenty of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (14 oz) pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices (optional, or substitute with your favorite pizza toppings)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef and season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the pizza sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in the 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1 cup cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Add the pepperoni slices (or other pizza toppings) on top for added flavor.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or any of your favorite pizza toppings into the casserole for added flavor and texture.
- Make it Spicy: For a spicier kick, add a few jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for pizza lovers! It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza in a hearty, cheesy casserole. Enjoy!