Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole

Cheesy beef pizza casserole is the answer whenever my family needs something cozy delicious and quick for busy nights It brings together the cheesy comfort of pizza and the satisfying heartiness of a classic pasta bake This recipe has rescued me from so many weeknight dinner dilemmas and never fails to make everyone at the table happy

I first made this when my kids could not agree between pizza and pasta It was an instant hit and quickly became a frequent request whenever cold weather settles in

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose beef with moderate fat for best flavor and moisture or try ground lamb for a richer taste
• Onion: pick a firm small onion for sweetness and depth
• Garlic: use fresh cloves to give a subtle background note to the dish
• Italian seasoning: opt for high quality blends for more robust flavor
• Salt and pepper: always taste to adjust for your preferences
• Cooked pasta: rotini or penne work best because they hold the sauce well and bake beautifully
• Marinara or pizza sauce: use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce with bold flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: buy a block and shred it yourself for the meltiest cheese topping
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp cheesy layer that browns perfectly in the oven
• Pepperoni slices: use halal pepperoni if needed to suit dietary needs
• Chopped bell peppers (optional): for extra color and sweetness go for tight crisp peppers
• Sliced black olives (optional): for a salty tang and classic pizza flavor make sure they look glossy and plump
• Olive oil: for cooking helps brown the meat and opens up the aromatics
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): for a burst of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit one hundred ninety degrees Celsius and grease a baking dish Use just enough olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking

Sauté the Aromatics:

Pour a swirl of olive oil in a large skillet Heat gently then add diced onion and garlic Cook over medium heat for two to three minutes until tender and fragrant Stir continuously to prevent burning

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon Let it cook until fully brown and no pink remains Drain any extra fat off Stir in Italian seasoning salt and pepper Blend well to season all the meat evenly

Mix in the Goodness:

In a large mixing bowl combine the cooked pasta marinara sauce the meat mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella Toss so every piece of pasta gets some sauce and beef

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish Spread evenly Top with the rest of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan for a bubbling browned top once baked

Add Toppings:

Distribute pepperoni slices chopped bell peppers and sliced black olives over the cheese Try to layer them so every scoop will have a spot of color and flavor

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into your hot oven Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling on top Watch the edges for that irresistible crispy finish

Garnish and Serve:

Take your casserole out and let it rest a minute Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if you want a burst of color Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite

Save

Mozzarella has become my favorite part of this casserole Nothing beats watching the kids compete for the crispiest edge pieces with the golden cheese I will always remember the laughter echoing in the kitchen as the dish came bubbling out of the oven

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool before covering and storing in the refrigerator It keeps well for up to three days For best results reheat in the oven covered with foil to keep it from drying out You can also portion and freeze for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or spicy sausage for a different flavor twist Use whatever short pasta you have on hand and if you are out of pizza sauce mix tomato sauce with extra Italian herbs For a vegetarian version skip the meat and load up on sautéed mushrooms peppers and zucchini

Serving Suggestions

Serve this with a crisp green salad to cut the richness and add crunch Garlic bread is a classic side for soaking up extra sauce For extra veggies offer steamed broccoli or roasted zucchini on the side

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Yes, ground lamb, turkey, or chicken can be used in place of beef for a different flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for best results.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Rotini or penne are ideal as they hold the sauce and fillings well, but other shapes can work too.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?

You can omit the meat and add sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, or more bell peppers for a meatless version.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I use a different cheese blend?

Feel free to try provolone, cheddar, or a mix for a unique flavor twist.