Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 12

Cook Time: 40

Total Time: 52

Servings:

Calories: 464kcal

A quick and easy Pepperoni Pizza Casserole that's hearty and delicious.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 16 oz penne pasta to package directions for al dente. Drain pasta well in a colander.
Reserve 24 slices of pepperoni for the top. Chop the remaining slices into quarters or smaller (I prefer a smaller dice so the pieces get well distributed).
Combine cooked pasta, chopped pepperoni, 24 oz pizza sauce, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Mix well to combine. Spritz a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Top pasta with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, and remaining pepperoni slices.
Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes and until hot throughout, the edges are bubbling, and cheese is completely melted. Let rest a couple minutes before serving.
Top with chopped parsley and basil leaves, if desired.

If you're not a fan of pepperoni or just want to switch things up, try adding some leftover chicken or some rotisserie chicken. It's a great way to add some protein for a deliciously balanced dinner.
Feel free to use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef in this recipe. Both will add their own unique flavor to the dish. Just be sure it's thoroughly cooked before adding it in.
Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Try adding some chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the casserole. It'll add some extra flavor and nutrition. For best results, cook veggies first to release their moisture so your casserole won't get soggy.
Add a little color to your casserole by using a pink tomato sauce instead of the traditional red. It'll be a fun twist on the classic dish. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic look and feel, try making this casserole in a cast iron skillet. It'll give the dish a unique texture and presentation.