Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

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Introduction

Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds, delivering the comforting flavors of spaghetti with the savory, cheesy satisfaction of pizza. Imagine twirling tender spaghetti noodles coated in marinara sauce and layered with gooey melted cheese, all topped with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or olives. The baked casserole transforms these simple ingredients into a bubbling, golden masterpiece that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

The first time I made Pizza Spaghetti Casserole, it quickly became a family favorite. The recipe was straightforward, but the result felt like a creative twist on two classics we already loved. As the casserole baked in the oven, the aroma of bubbling marinara sauce, melting cheese, and savory toppings filled the house. When it was finally time to serve, the layers of noodles, sauce, and toppings came together in a way that was pure comfort on a plate.

What I love most about this casserole is how versatile it is. It’s a perfect dish to make ahead for busy weeknights or to bring to a potluck where you want to impress without the fuss. You can customize it to fit everyone’s preferences—swap out pepperoni for turkey bacon, add veggies for a lighter version, or spice it up with jalapeños for an extra kick. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or shared at a gathering, Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is guaranteed to bring people together around the table with its irresistible layers of cheesy, saucy goodness.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Potluck gatherings
  • Weeknight meals
  • Meal prep
  • Picky eaters

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Here’s why Pizza Spaghetti Casserole will become a go-to meal in your kitchen:

  • Combines Two Classics: This recipe fuses the best parts of pizza and spaghetti into one satisfying dish.
  • Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love the familiar flavors of this casserole.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or veggies to make it your own.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this casserole in advance and bake it when you’re ready for a stress-free meal.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, this dish feeds a crowd and gets rave reviews every time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pizza Spaghetti Casserole:

  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 20-25 slices of turkey pepperoni
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Spaghetti Noodles: The base of the casserole, providing the classic pasta texture we all love.
  • Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Adds a savory, hearty element to the dish.
  • Marinara Sauce: Brings the flavors of a classic pizza with a rich, tangy tomato base.
  • Cheese Trio: A combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan ensures gooey, cheesy perfection.
  • Turkey Pepperoni: A healthier, flavorful alternative to traditional pepperoni.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s how to make Pizza Spaghetti Casserole:

Cook the Spaghetti:

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

  1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Layer the Pasta: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Add the Sauce: Pour half of the meat sauce over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
  3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese over the sauce.
  4. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining spaghetti, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

Top with Toppings:

  1. Add Pepperoni and Veggies: Arrange the turkey pepperoni slices, bell peppers, and mushrooms on top of the cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the toppings.

Bake the Casserole:

  1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
  • With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • For Potlucks: Bring it to potluck gatherings for a guaranteed hit.
  • As Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
  • Kid-Friendly Dinner: Serve smaller portions with extra cheese for a kid-approved meal.

Additional Tips for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Here are some tips to make your Pizza Spaghetti Casserole even better:

  • Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that affect texture.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Add Spice: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Layer Evenly: Ensure even layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese for consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Customize Toppings: Use your favorite pizza toppings to make the dish uniquely yours.

Recipe Variations for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Here are 10 variations you can try for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole:

  • Vegetarian: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like zucchini, olives, and spinach.
  • Supreme Pizza Casserole: Add black olives, green peppers, and onions for a supreme-style dish.
  • White Pizza Casserole: Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy twist.
  • Meat Lovers: Add cooked bacon, chicken ham, and ground beef for a hearty meat-lovers’ version.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free spaghetti noodles for a gluten-free dish.
  • Low-Carb: Use spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
  • Buffalo Chicken: Swap the marinara sauce with buffalo sauce and use shredded chicken instead of beef.
  • Hawaiian Pizza: Add pineapple chunks and chicken ham for a sweet and savory combination.
  • Four Cheese: Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, and provolone for extra cheesiness.
  • BBQ Pizza Casserole: Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara and add shredded chicken or beef.

Freezing and Storage for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

  • Freezing: Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Pizza Spaghetti Casserole easier:

  • Large Skillet: Perfect for cooking the meat sauce.
  • 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Ideal for layering and baking the casserole.
  • Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients and preparing toppings.
  • Foil: To cover the casserole while baking.
  • Cheese Grater: For freshly grating mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.

FAQ Section for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

  1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or rotini can be used in place of spaghetti for a different texture.
  3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
    Yes, you can freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
  4. Can I make it vegetarian?
    Yes, simply omit the meat and add more veggies or plant-based protein.
  5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for individual portions.
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Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

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Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines two beloved classics: pizza and spaghetti. This hearty casserole is loaded with spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. With its irresistible layers of cheesy, saucy goodness and customizable toppings, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Category: baking

Ingredients

Scale

Gather these ingredients to make your Pizza Spaghetti Casserole:

  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2025 slices of turkey pepperoni
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

  1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add the Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Layer the Pasta: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Add the Sauce: Pour half of the meat sauce over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
  3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese over the sauce.
  4. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining spaghetti, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

Top with Toppings:

  1. Add Pepperoni and Veggies: Arrange the turkey pepperoni slices, bell peppers, and mushrooms on top of the cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the toppings.

Bake the Casserole:

  1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 18g

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Conclusion for Pizza Spaghetti Casserole

Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. With layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, gooey cheese, and pizza toppings, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or as a freezer-friendly meal, this casserole delivers every time.

Get creative with your favorite toppings and turn this into a personalized masterpiece that everyone will rave about. Be sure to snap a photo of your casserole and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you made it your own. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any fun variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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