If you’re anything like me, finding new ways to savor pizza flavors is always on the menu. That’s why I’m thrilled to share a recipe that takes the beloved classic to a whole new level: Pepperoni Pizza Casserole. This dish is a fantastic fusion of all the traditional pizza toppings you adore, baked into a hearty and satisfying casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings, whether you want to clear out the fridge or just try something new. Plus, it’s all made in one dish, which means you can enjoy your meal without dreading the cleanup afterward!
Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw egg noodles
- 8 ounces lean ground beef (about 1/2 pound)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 16 ounces pizza sauce
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients:
Stir the pizza sauce into the skillet with the beef and veggies. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Fold in the milk and half the shredded mozzarella cheese until everything is nicely blended.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and arrange the pepperoni slices on top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This rest period helps everything set up nicely for slicing.
Cut into squares and serve warm.
Feel free to throw in other favorite toppings like mushrooms, olives, or even some diced pineapple for a twist. This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun, flexible dish that brings all the joy of pizza in a form that’s both new and nostalgic. Dig in and enjoy the comfort of pizza night with a twist!