Family Fiesta Pizza Casserole

Let's Talk Pizza Casserole, Yeah?

Fancy a bit of comfort food? I'm all about this Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for those nights when you just want something tasty. This isn't your average grub, it's proper cheesy goodness.

Family Dinner Ideas Sorted!

This is more than just a pizza casserole recipe . Think of it as a hug in a baking dish. Its origins? Who knows, probably some genius wanting pizza without the faff.

It's an easy recipe, takes about 45 minutes all in, and feeds 6-8 hungry bellies. Perfect as a quick midweek meal for the family.

Why This Cheesy Casserole Bake Is The Bees Knees

Honestly, it’s the ultimate in comfort food casserole . Plus, it sneaks some veg in there too so it is guilt free.

Serve it up on a cold evening, and you'll be everyone's favourite. The Italian sausage casserole makes it a family favourite.

Ingredients for Easy Pizza Casserole Goodness

You'll need Italian sausage, onions, peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, egg noodles, ricotta, Parmesan, an egg, and mozzarella.

Nothing fancy, just proper good stuff. The base of this pizza bake recipe is so simple! It is so much simpler than regular pizza!.

This Recipe: The Perfect Budget Friendly Family Meal !

This casserole recipe with noodles is special because it's so versatile. You can chuck in whatever veggies you have lying around and it will still taste amazing.

I even chucked in some leftover roasted chicken once. The pizza casserole is an all-rounder! It keeps things exciting.

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Easy Pizza Casserole Toolkit

Right, so you fancy knocking up this easy pizza casserole ? Brilliant! Let’s get the gear and grub sorted. It’s a proper comfort food casserole , this one.

Honestly, this pizza casserole recipe is so straightforward, even I can't mess it up! You know, like when you just want a quick midweek meal and can't be bothered with fiddly stuff?

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

Here's what you'll need. Don't worry, it's mostly stuff you'll find easily.

• Italian sausage: 1 pound (454g) . Get the good stuff if you can. Look for sausage that's nicely pink and smells, well, sausage-y!
• Onion: 1 medium , chopped. About 1 cup (150g) .
• Green bell pepper: 1 , chopped. Roughly 1 cup (150g) .
• Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can . The better the tomatoes, the tastier the sauce, innit?
• Tomato sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can .
• Dried oregano: 2 teaspoons .
• Dried basil: 1 teaspoon . These really give that Italian flavour.
• Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Salt and pepper: To taste. Obvs.
• Egg noodles: 1 (12 ounce/340g) package , cooked. Don’t overcook them, yeah?
• Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces (425g) . Full fat is best for that creamy texture.
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (120ml) , grated. The proper stuff, not the sawdust-y kind!
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups (227g) , shredded. This is your cheesy casserole bake magic!

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Bombs

Oregano and basil are your base. Garlic powder adds a subtle kick. Salt and pepper? Well, that’s a no-brainer! If you're feeling adventurous, chuck in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy pizza bake recipe .

This would add a spicy kick to the Italian sausage casserole . Honestly, it transforms the casserole recipe with noodles.

No basil? Use Italian seasoning mix if you have it. It's a decent sub.

Equipment Needed: Bare Essentials Only

Right, you won't need fancy stuff, promise.

• Large skillet or frying pan.
• 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
• Large mixing bowl.
• Colander. No alternatives for this one, mate.

No fancy gadgets here, just your budget friendly family meal basics! This easy pizza casserole is a total winner for family dinner ideas .

Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for Family Fun

Fancy a proper comfort food casserole that's easier than ordering a takeaway? Then this Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for you, my friend.

Honestly, this easy pizza casserole is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s proper simple, and the whole family will wolf it down.

Trust me.

Prep Like a Boss

Mise en place , my friends, mise en place ! Get everything chopped and measured. You know? Onion, bell pepper, sausage the whole shebang.

It saves so much faffing about later. Pro tip: Chop your veggies while the sausage is browning to save time! Always brown the sausage until nicely done.

That's where the flavor lives!

step-by-step to Cheesy Casserole Bliss

1. Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper in a pan until soft.
2. Add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage and brown lightly.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
5. Mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg in a bowl.
6. Layer half the meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and remaining sauce in a baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30 minutes , until bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips and Tricks

Don't overcook the noodles! Slightly undercook them. They'll finish in the oven. This pizza bake recipe can be prepped ahead of time.

Just assemble it and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. It helps if you can have the sauce prepared a day ahead.

It will give it a chance to mingle all the flavors together.

This cheesy casserole bake is a total winner for family dinner ideas , especially if you're on a budget. It uses simple ingredients and makes a big batch, making it a perfect budget friendly family meal .

Plus, it’s a super quick midweek meal option when you're short on time and inspiration. Seriously, give this Italian sausage casserole a go, and let me know what you think.

It's an oldie, but a goodie, and perfect for warming up a cold evening.

Recipe Notes for Your Family Fiesta Pizza Casserole

Alright, let's chat about making this easy pizza casserole even easier ! This is where you can really make this recipe your own.

I'm going to share a few tips, tricks, and ideas to get you started. This will turn your pizza casserole into a masterpiece.

You know? A real weeknight winner for family dinner ideas .

Serving This Cheesy Casserole Bake Right

Let's talk presentation! For plating, I like to serve this easy pizza casserole straight from the baking dish. A big ol' spoonful plopped onto a plate is peak comfort food casserole .

Scatter a few fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of colour, you know? A simple side salad always works a treat.

And don't forget garlic bread! It is perfect for soaking up all that lovely sauce.

Consider a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette. Or, if you're feeling fancy, a side of roasted vegetables would be lush! A nice glass of Chianti would be ideal.

But honestly, a cold glass of lemonade is just as good. The goal is to create a balanced meal.

Storing Your Italian Sausage Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pizza bake recipe keeps well. For refrigeration, just pop the cooled casserole into an airtight container. It'll be good for about 3-4 days. Easy peasy.

Freezing? Absolutely! Cut the cooled casserole into individual portions. Then wrap them tightly in cling film before freezing. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. You can also microwave, but baking gives better results.

Adapt Your Pizza Casserole Recipe

Want to mix things up? No problem! For a vegetarian version, swap the Italian sausage casserole for mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.

Honestly, it's banging! To make it gluten-free, just use gluten-free noodles. And make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free too.

Also, for a budget friendly family meal , use up any veggies you have in the fridge. This casserole is super adaptable.

Nutrition Facts For Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for Family Fun

Okay, let's talk about the good stuff. Each serving clocks in at around 450 calories. You also get a whopping 30g of protein.

Plus, it is packed with vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and veggies. It’s a quick midweek meal that satisfies and nourishes.

Remember, this is just an estimate. The actual nutritional value may vary. Don't stress too much. Just enjoy your comfort food casserole !

So there you have it! All the notes you need to nail this pizza casserole recipe . Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and make it your own! You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for Family Fun ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.

Think of it like prepping your Sunday roast on Saturday saves loads of time!

What are some good variations for this pizza casserole? I'm looking to mix things up a bit.

Fancy a bit of a twist? Loads of options, mate! For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. If you're feeling spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. And if you're catering for gluten-free guests, use gluten-free noodles.

Get creative it's your casserole, after all!

How do I store leftover pizza casserole? And how long will it last?

Store any leftover Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure it's in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a larger portion in the oven until heated through. Just like a good shepherd's pie, it's often even tastier the next day!

Can I freeze this pizza casserole?

Yes, you can! To freeze the pizza casserole, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a bit more baking time if needed. It's a great option for batch cooking, a bit like freezing portions of your favourite curry!

Is there a way to make this Easy Pizza Casserole Recipe for a smaller group?

Of course! Just halve all the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, like an 8x8 inch square pan. The baking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness after about 20-25 minutes. Think of it as scaling down a Victoria sponge easy peasy!

Any tips for preventing the noodles from getting mushy in this casserole?

The key is to slightly undercook the noodles when you boil them initially. They'll continue to cook in the oven while the casserole bakes, so you want them to be a little firm. Also, make sure to drain them really well after cooking to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

A little like making pasta for a lasagne al dente is the way to go!