Ultimate Comfort: Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Pepperoni Pizza Casserole. This delicious twist on a classic favorite combines the flavors of pizza with the convenience of a casserole, creating a hearty and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this mouthwatering Pepperoni Pizza Casserole in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Rotini pasta; 1 pound, cooked and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large sweet onion, diced
1 pound lean ground beef
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups pizza or marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
24 pepperonis

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Onion:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onion. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Season the Beef Mixture:
- Sprinkle oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the cooked beef mixture. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Casserole:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked rotini pasta on the bottom.
- Spread half of the pizza or marinara sauce over the pasta.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Top with Pepperonis:
- Arrange the pepperonis evenly on top of the final layer of cheese.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
Spicy Variation: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese Lover’s Twist: Use a combination of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses for extra cheesy goodness.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer in this recipe. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Leftover Pepperoni Pizza Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven or microwave.

Q: How can I make a keto-friendly version of this casserole? A: To make a keto-friendly version, substitute the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. Use a low-carb marinara sauce and top with sliced pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

Substitute pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Use a low-carb marinara sauce or make your own keto-friendly sauce.
Top with sliced pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese for a delicious keto-friendly option.

Low-Carb Version:

Follow the keto version instructions, adjusting ingredients to fit your specific low-carb dietary needs.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

In conclusion, Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of pasta, savory beef, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a comfort food classic that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!