This easy pizza pasta casserole recipe is one that will have the whole family come running. The spicy sliced pepperoni provides the zip in this pasta casserole and also gives it the pizza name.
Perfect for busy week nights, this recipe is so easy to do and comes together quickly. It’s almost as fast as making hamburger helper and so much more delicious.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. My favorite pizza used to be hamburger, pepperoni and mushrooms, so that is what went into my casserole. But if you like sausage, and peppers, go for it. Also , any pasta will work well.
I have long ago stopped enjoying pizzas themselves, (calories and just not fond of them anymore) but I still love a pizza inspired dish. Changing it up a bit by making it into a casserole pleases those in my family who still enjoy pizza and satisfies me too.
This is the dish without the extra pepperoni and cheese. It is just oozing with goodness and fabulous flavor! (and perfect for another night if you don’t want the extra calories!)
And here it is ready to go into the oven. Pizza anyone?
Serve this easy casserole with a tossed salad and side of garlic bread and you will have a winner on your hands.
Easy Pizza Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme
- 1/2 tsp fresh oregano
- 1/2 tsp fresh basil
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce ( I used Prego chunky tomato, onion and garlic
- 8 oz. rigatoni pasta
- 2 1/2 cups cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend
- 1/2 cup Sliced pepperoni