If you’re anything like me, then you know the magic that a deliciously cheesy Pepperoni Pizza can bring to any gathering, cozy night at home, or even a last-minute dinner. But sometimes, let’s be honest, we’re just not in the mood to roll out dough or wait for pizza delivery. That’s where my Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole comes in! This savory dish captures all the beloved flavors of classic pepperoni pizza – gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and crispy pepperoni – but with the comforting heartiness of a casserole. In just 45 minutes, this dish brings family and friends together while satisfying those cheesy cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you won’t break a sweat before diving into a cheesy delight!
- Flavor Packed: This casserole is bursting with familiar pizza flavors that will take you right back to your favorite pizzeria.
- Perfect for Weeknights: A comforting, hearty dish that is ready in less than an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Easy Customization: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings or cheeses to make this casserole your own!
Ingredients
– Pasta, your favorite shape or gluten-free if you prefer
– Italian turkey sausage for a lighter option
– Pizza sauce or marinara sauce to bring all those Italian flavors
– Sliced black olives for a touch of saltiness
– Pepperoni, because what’s a pepperoni pizza without it?
– Ricotta for creaminess and texture
– Mozzarella cheese, the star of the dish!
– Grated Parmigiano Reggiano (parmesan) for that extra flavor kick
– Optional oregano to enhance the herb aroma
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s get cooking! The first step is to cook the pasta according to the package instructions but stop about three minutes before it’s fully done. This ensures the pasta remains perfectly al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Once done, drain and set aside.
Now, while the pasta is cooking, it’s time to brown the sausage in a large saucepan over medium heat. This should take about 10 minutes, and just wait until you start to smell the deliciousness! That’s the aroma of your kitchen begging to have a slice of that pizza goodness.
Next, combine the sausage with the sauce in the pan. Mix in about three-quarters of the olives and pepperoni slices, and let that lovely mixture simmer for a moment while we prepare the creamy layer!
In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan together. This cheesy combo is going to be the glorious glue that holds your casserole together.
Now it’s time to layer the goodness! Start by placing half of the pasta in the bottom of a large baking dish. Next, add half of the sausage sauce mixture followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers until everything is beautifully stacked. Don’t forget to top it off with the remaining olives, pepperoni, and if you like, a sprinkle of oregano to add that extra pizzazz!
Pop your casserole in a preheated oven set to 350°F (180°C) and cover it with foil. Bake until you see those delicious bubbles at the sides, about 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese becomes gloriously melted and starts to turn that lovely golden brown.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcook your pasta during the boiling process – remember we want it al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven!
- If you prefer a bit of crunch on top, try broiling the casserole for a minute or two after baking to get that cheese bubbly and beautifully browned.
- Feel free to use any of your favorite pizza toppings! Think bell peppers, mushrooms, or grilled chicken for a fun twist!
- To avoid sogginess, drain the sauce if it seems particularly watery.
How to Serve
This Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is best served warm right out of the oven. I love pairing it with a fresh garden salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect balance. Adding some garlic bread on the side is an absolute must for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate. For a fun touch, you can even sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to give it a restaurant-style finish!
Make Ahead and Storage
This casserole is absolutely perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it right before serving. Want to save leftovers? No problem! Keep any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. And guess what? You can also freeze it! Just wrap it tightly and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through, and you’ll be savoring those pizza flavors all over again!
So there you have it – my delightful Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole! A dish that brings everyone together and celebrates the heart of comfort food. Enjoy cooking, and may your family gather around the table with smiles and full bellies!
Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta gluten free for gluten free
- 0.5 pound Italian turkey sausage casings removed
- 3 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 0.5 cup sliced black olives
- 4 ounces pepperoni
- 8 ounces ricotta
- 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
- 0.5 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated
- 0.5 teaspoon oregano optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta as directed on package but stop 3 minutes early, drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, cook the sausage over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
- Mix sauce with the sausage and 3/4’s of the olives and pepperoni, then set aside.
- Mix ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan and set aside.
- Layer half the pasta, half the sauce, and half the cheese mixture in a large baking dish. Repeat the layers and top with remaining olives, pepperoni, and oregano.
- Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350F/180C oven until bubbling, about 20-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake until cheese is melted and golden brown, about 10 minutes.