Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole

Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the best of pizza and casserole in one easy-to-make recipe. With a savory beef filling, gooey cheese, and all the classic pizza toppings, it’s a meal everyone will love. Here’s how you can make it!

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or any short pasta works best)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Use a spoon to break up the meat into small crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Season: Add the garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the beef mixture, stirring to combine. Pour in the pizza sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.
2. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and beef.
3. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses (reserve some mozzarella and Parmesan for the topping). Add any optional toppings, such as pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms, and mix well.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Layer the Casserole: Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
2. Garnish: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh basil or additional grated Parmesan.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve: Slice and serve the cheesy beef pizza casserole as you would a lasagna or pizza, and enjoy!

Tips:

• You can make the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Customize the casserole by adding your favorite pizza toppings such as green peppers, onions, sausage, or even anchovies.
• For extra creaminess, you can add a cup of ricotta cheese or cream cheese to the beef mixture.

This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole brings all the flavors of pizza with the hearty, cheesy comfort of a casserole. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a fun twist on pizza night! Enjoy!