Mama’s Pizza Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe

If you’re craving the flavors of pizza but want something a little heartier, Mama’s Pizza Casserole is the perfect solution. This delicious dish combines all the classic flavors of pizza in a comforting casserole format that’s sure to please the whole family. With layers of pasta, savory tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering Mama’s Pizza Casserole!

Introduction:

Mama’s Pizza Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal that brings together the flavors of everyone’s favorite comfort food: pizza! Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need to whip up a quick weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Packed with cheesy goodness and savory toppings, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.

Ingredients:

1 (10-ounce) bag of egg noodles
1 jar of tomato sauce (I use Ragu spaghetti sauce)
3 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 1/2 pound hamburger meat
1 package of pepperoni

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Hamburger Meat

In a large skillet, cook the hamburger meat over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Layer half of the cooked egg noodles on top of the sauce.
Spoon half of the cooked hamburger meat over the noodles.
Sprinkle half of the shredded Mozzarella cheese over the hamburger meat.
Repeat the layers: tomato sauce, egg noodles, hamburger meat, and Mozzarella cheese.
Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Omit the hamburger meat and pepperoni for a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for added flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the layers for a spicy kick.
Customize the Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences. Try adding cooked sausage, ham, bacon, or your favorite pizza vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of Mama’s Pizza Casserole:

Zucchini Noodles: Substitute zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for the egg noodles to reduce the carb content.
Sugar-Free Tomato Sauce: Use a low-carb or sugar-free tomato sauce to keep the carb count low.
Cauliflower Crust: Replace the egg noodles with a base made from cauliflower rice or cauliflower crust for a keto-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it heats through completely.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Mama’s Pizza Casserole freezes well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Of course! While Mozzarella cheese is traditional for pizza, you can experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor. Try a blend of Mozzarella, Cheddar, and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Mama’s Pizza Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings the flavors of pizza to your dinner table in a whole new way. With its layers of noodles, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and pepperoni, it’s sure to become a favorite with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Give it a try and watch as it disappears from the dinner table in no time!