Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds: the delightful flavors of pizza and the comforting heartiness of spaghetti. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort. It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite pizza toppings to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or Italian sausage)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 package (6 ounces) sliced pepperoni
- 1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) Italian-style diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, Romano)
- Optional pizza toppings: black olives, cooked sausage, onions, green peppers
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
- Brown the Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Meat: Add the oregano and garlic powder to the cooked meat. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- Mix Eggs, Milk, and Parmesan: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten eggs until well combined.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to coat the noodles evenly with the egg mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Add the Spaghetti: Layer the spaghetti mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Add Meat and Sauce: Spread the cooked ground meat over the spaghetti. Then, pour the remaining pasta sauce and the drained diced tomatoes over the meat.
- Top with Pepperoni and Cheese: Arrange the sliced pepperoni on top of the sauce layer. Sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese blend evenly over the top.
- Add Optional Toppings: If desired, add any additional pizza toppings such as black olives, cooked sausage, onions, or green peppers.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cook’s Notes
- Spaghetti: Make sure the spaghetti is cooked just until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Ground Meat: You can use a combination of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to use any cheese blend you prefer. Mozzarella and provolone work particularly well.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
What other toppings can I add?
You can customize this casserole with your favorite pizza toppings. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, or even pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use whole wheat spaghetti, lean ground turkey, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best elements of pizza and pasta. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe for a delicious and comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
