Pizza Night Reinvented the Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Casserole

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever had one of those nights? Honestly, this Best Pizza Casserole Ever is perfect for them. It's proper comfort food with a cheesy, Italian flavor that hits the spot.

Brief Overview

This Pizza Casserole Recipe Easy is basically pizza's cooler, more relaxed cousin. It's an Italian Casserole Recipes dream. Ready in under an hour, this makes enough for 6-8 hungry folks.

This is a Comfort Food Casserole Recipes delight that is very simple to put together.

Main Benefits

Loaded with cheese, it's got a good bit of protein and is customizable. Perfect for a weeknight Cheesy Pizza Casserole Dinner .

This Homemade Pizza Casserole is especially brilliant when you want something the whole Family Dinner Casserole Ideas will love.

This Ain't Your Average Pizza Hot Dish Recipe

Right, let's be real, sometimes ordering pizza feels like a chore. But what if you could get all those pizza flavors, with minimal effort? That’s where this Baked Pizza Casserole comes in.

Think less "cheffing it up," and more "bung it in the oven and relax."

Ingredient Rundown

You’ll need pasta, minced meat (beef or Italian sausage, your shout), onion, garlic, tinned tomatoes, and, of course, loads of cheese.

Don't forget your favorite pizza toppings - pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, you name it. Get yourself some penne, rotini, or fusilli pasta.

A good pound of it should be enough. The fun thing about this recipe is that it’s really flexible. Use whatever toppings you fancy.

Honestly, the messier the better if you ask me. You know?

Easy Instructions

First, get your pasta cooked al dente you don’t want it mushy. Brown the mince with the onion and garlic, then simmer it all together with tomatoes and herbs.

Mix the pasta and sauce, layer it with a ricotta cheese mixture, and top with mozzarella and your chosen toppings.

Whack it in the oven and bake until bubbly and golden. Sorted! Making the Macaroni Pizza Casserole is a simple variation on the theme, too.

Alright then, let's dive into what you'll need to make the Best Pizza Casserole Ever . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward, nothing too fancy!

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's break down the bits and bobs you'll need for this Cheesy Pizza Casserole Dinner . Don't worry, you probably have most of this stuff already!

Main Ingredients

• Pasta: 1 pound (450g) of penne, rotini, or fusilli. I usually go for penne, it holds the sauce nicely.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Just your regular stuff will do.
• Ground Beef/Sausage: 1 pound (450g) . Go for a good quality mince. The better the meat, the better the Baked Pizza Casserole , innit?
• Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup). Yellow or white is fine.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best!
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (794g) . Get a good brand, it makes a difference.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (425g) . Again, quality matters.
• Oregano: 1 teaspoon , dried.
• Basil: 1/2 teaspoon , dried.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For that Pizza Hot Dish Recipe kick!
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g) . Full fat is best for that creamy texture.
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (60ml) , grated. The proper stuff, not that powdery stuff in a green can!
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups (about 8 ounces/225g) , shredded. Low-moisture is ideal.
• Pizza Toppings: Your faves! Pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, olives, ham, bacon... go wild! It is Family Dinner Casserole Ideas .

Seasoning Notes

This is where you can really make it your own!

• Essential spice combinations: Oregano and basil are the backbone of any good Italian Casserole Recipes .
• Flavor enhancers and aromatics: A little garlic goes a long way. Red pepper flakes add a nice heat.
• Quick substitution options: If you don't have oregano, use Italian seasoning. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple, yeah?

• Large pot: For boiling pasta.
• Large skillet: For browning the meat and making the sauce. A big saucepan works too.
• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish: For baking the casserole. You can use a slightly smaller or larger dish if you need to.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Mixing bowl: For mixing the ricotta cheese mixture.

Right, that's all the bits sorted. Next up, we'll actually make the flipping thing. Get excited to make a Pizza Casserole Recipe Easy ! It will become the Best Pizza Casserole .

Alright, let's talk about making the Best Pizza Casserole Ever . Honestly, it's easier than ordering a takeaway! I'll walk you through it.

This Cheesy Pizza Casserole Dinner will become a family favourite, trust me. It's the perfect Comfort Food Casserole Recipes , too.

Let's Get Prepped!

Essential Mise en Place

First things first, get everything ready. Chop your onion. Mince the garlic. Grate the cheese. Honestly, doing this makes the whole process way smoother. Trust me, I've learned that the hard way!

Time Saving Organization Tips

While the pasta water is heating up, brown your meat. Saves time. You know? Also, get all your spices measured out beforehand. Small things, but they add up.

Safety Reminders

Don't be a plonker! Remember to drain the pasta properly. And be careful when draining the meat. Hot grease is no joke.

Making the Magic Happen: step-by-step

This Homemade Pizza Casserole is really easy. Follow these steps for a delightful Baked Pizza Casserole . This Pizza Hot Dish Recipe will become a staple in your home.

1. Cook 1 pound (450g) pasta 'til al dente. Don't overcook it!.
2. Brown 1 pound (450g) ground beef. Drain the fat like your life depends on it.
3. Sauté 1 cup chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves for about 5 minutes. Get 'em nice and soft.
4. Stir in 28 ounces (794g) crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces (425g) tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes . Taste and adjust.
5. Mix the pasta and meat sauce. Make sure it's all coated nicely.
6. Mix 15 ounces (425g) ricotta, 1 egg, and Parmesan. This is your cheesy layer.
7. Layer half the pasta, then ricotta mix, then the rest of the pasta in a dish.
8. Top with mozzarella and your favourite pizza toppings. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes . Golden brown, baby!

Pro Tips for Pizza Perfection

Expert Techniques

Add a bit of sugar to the sauce. Cuts the acidity. Also, don't skimp on the cheese! This cheesy Pizza Casserole dinner needs loads!

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta. It becomes mush. Drain your meat well. A greasy casserole is just rank.

make-ahead Options

Assemble the whole thing the night before. Bake it the next day. A lifesaver on a busy weeknight, Family Dinner Casserole Ideas like this are a godsend! It becomes even more delicious because the flavors have had more time to meld together.

This Pizza Casserole Recipe Easy is your new go-to for busy weeknights. You'll be saying "Oh my gosh!", what a delicious and simple dinner! Enjoy your Italian Casserole Recipes night with this classic recipe.

Recipe Notes for the Best Pizza Casserole Ever

Alright, so you're ready to make the Best Pizza Casserole Ever ! You're gonna love this. Now, I’m not gonna lie, this is one of my go-to Comfort Food Casserole Recipes when I need something quick and satisfying.

Think of these as your cheat sheet to casserole perfection.

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Right, presentation is key. You know? Plating makes all the difference. I like to serve each portion of my Cheesy Pizza Casserole Dinner with a sprinkle of fresh basil.

A simple green salad on the side brightens it up. And garlic bread for mopping up that sauce? Oh my gosh, yes! It's like a proper Italian feast.

A crisp beer or a nice glass of Chianti pairs beautifully. The Family Dinner Casserole Ideas are endless when it comes to sides!

Storage Secrets: Making it Last

So, what if you have leftovers of this Baked Pizza Casserole ? Honestly, I'd be surprised. But if you do, here's the deal.

Pop any leftovers in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option.

Wrap individual portions well. It'll last for up to 2 months. To reheat, just microwave it. Or bake it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's heated through.

The sauce of this Pizza Hot Dish Recipe reheats incredibly well.

Variations: Keepin' it Fresh

One thing I absolutely love about this Homemade Pizza Casserole is that it’s SO versatile. Want a vegetarian option? Easy! Skip the meat and load it up with mushrooms, peppers, and zucchini.

Need a gluten-free version? Just swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety. Easy peasy. For a seasonal twist, add roasted butternut squash in the autumn or fresh tomatoes and courgettes in the summer.

These Italian Casserole Recipes are a blank canvas for deliciousness.

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body

Okay, let's talk nutrition. Each serving of this Pizza Casserole Recipe Easy clocks in at around 450-550 calories . It's packed with protein (around 30-35g) thanks to the meat and cheese.

You also get a good dose of carbs (40-50g) from the pasta. Remember this is just an estimate, and it will vary depending on your ingredients.

Also, cheese can be high in fat. So, go easy on it if you're watching your intake.

You've got this! Seriously, the Best Pizza Casserole Ever is a winner. It is truly that easy and delicious. Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own.

Happy cooking, mate!