Mama’s Pizza Casserole

An Irresistible Take on Classic Comfort: Mama’s Pizza Casserole

Imagine the savory taste of your favorite pizza, transformed into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. Mama’s Pizza Casserole combines the best of both worlds with cheesy goodness and delightful toppings, making it an instant favorite. Serve it alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the leftovers just as much the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it takes the universally loved flavors of pizza and makes them even more comforting in casserole form. It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules or for taking to gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Frying pan for browning meat
• 9×13×3 inch baking dish
• Oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground meat
• 1 16 oz. box bow tie pasta
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 ounces sliced pepperoni
• 1 (26 ounce) jar pasta sauce
• 1 10 oz. can diced Italian style tomatoes
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Italian cheese blend
• Optional: black olives, sausage, onions, green peppers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Once boiling, add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain when done.
2. In a frying pan, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Lightly grease a 9×13×3 inch baking dish. Pour a small amount of pasta sauce into the bottom to lightly coat it.
4. Add a layer of cooked pasta to the dish. Spread half of the remaining pasta sauce over the pasta, then add the can of diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and oregano.
5. Layer the cooked ground meat over the pasta, followed by a layer of pepperoni slices.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and shredded Italian cheese over the top. Add more pepperoni and any additional toppings you like, such as bacon bits or vegetables.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Pre-cook any additional toppings like onions or peppers for a softer texture.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or substitute pizza sauce for the pasta sauce to enhance the pizza flavor. You can also try adding different cheeses or even a spicy kick with some red pepper flakes!

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, this casserole is rich in protein from the meat and cheese, and it provides carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that brings the joy of pizza into a casserole dish, Mama’s Pizza Casserole is the perfect choice. Try it out and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear about your favorite toppings or any creative twists you add. Enjoy!