Pizza Casserole Recipe

If you love pizza but want an easy, baked alternative, this Pizza Casserole is the perfect recipe! It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, layers of pepperoni, and all the flavors of your favorite pizza in a hearty, comforting dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
✔ Full of Flavor – A perfect mix of meat, cheese, and pizza toppings.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Makes delicious leftovers.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, olives, or sausage.

Ingredients for Pizza Casserole

Meat Sauce Layer

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Cheese & Toppings

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 cup sliced pepperoni
½ cup diced ham (optional)

Crust Layer (Optional, for a thicker base)

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough OR 1 cup cooked pasta
1 tablespoon butter (melted, for brushing the crust)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Cook the Meat Sauce

In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Crust Layer (Optional)

If using crescent roll dough, press it into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for 5-7 minutes until slightly firm.
If using pasta, spread a layer of cooked pasta at the bottom of the dish.

4. Assemble the Pizza Casserole

First Layer: Spread half of the meat sauce over the crust or pasta.
Second Layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the sauce.
Third Layer: Add half of the pepperoni and diced ham.
Repeat: Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by cheese and the remaining toppings.

5. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or extra marinara sauce for dipping!

Thank you for following me on Facebook & pinterest
for more recipes click here