Pizza Pasta Casserole: A Perfect Fusion of Bold Flavors in a Cheesy Delight

Pizza PastaPhoto bythecozycook

Combine the best of both worlds with Pizza Pasta, a dish that merges the comforting heartiness of pasta with the bold, savory flavors of pizza. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cook 12 ounces of your favorite pasta, like penne or rotini, according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Get the Recipe Details: Pizza Pasta

In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat and stir in 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara or pizza sauce, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage sauce. Stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with another cup of shredded mozzarella and additional pepperoni slices.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Let the Pizza Pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this deliciously cheesy and savory dish that brings all the flavors of pizza in a fun, pasta-filled package. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together!