Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole is a fun, simple dish that combines all the flavors you love from pizza in a quick, cozy casserole form. Imagine melty cheese, pepperoni, tomato sauce, and pasta or bread baked together, creating a bubbly, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
I love making this casserole on busy nights when I want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but comes together with very little effort. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pizza toppings or whatever you have in the fridge.
My favorite way to serve this is straight out of the oven with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies. It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends, and it always brings smiles around the dinner table. If you’re looking for a quick, cheesy, crowd-pleasing meal, this casserole is definitely a winner in my book!
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using penne or rotini because their shapes hold sauce and cheese well. If you prefer, feel free to swap with bowtie or ziti pasta.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that classic melty stretchiness. Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. For a twist, try provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara. Tomato sauce works too, but pizza sauce often has extra herbs that boost flavor.
Pepperoni & Olives: Pepperoni adds spice and texture, but you can swap for cooked sausage or omit for a veggie version. Black olives add contrast, but mushrooms or bell peppers would also be great.
How Can You Get the Best Melty, Bubbly Cheese on Top?
Getting the cheese perfectly melted and golden is key. Here’s how:
- Use a mix of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle half the mozzarella into the pasta mix so the cheese melts inside.
- Add a generous layer of mozzarella on top for that bubbly, browned finish.
- Bake uncovered so the cheese crisps nicely around the edges.
- Watch the last few minutes to avoid burning; cheese can go from perfect to too brown quickly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta quickly and easily.
- Colander – to drain the pasta without losing any.
- Mixing bowl – to combine pasta, sauce, and cheese evenly.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for baking and serving the casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep ingredients balanced for best taste.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot casserole dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage for a different meaty flavor.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies and texture.
- Use shredded cheddar or provolone cheese mixed with mozzarella for a richer cheese taste.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if you like a little spicy kick.
Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, 15 minutes to cook the pasta, and 20-25 minutes to bake the casserole. Overall, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in roughly 45 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Pasta:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish lightly with olive oil or nonstick spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook it until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Mix Pasta with Sauce and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pizza sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
3. Assemble and Bake the Casserole:
Pour the pasta mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese, then scatter the sliced black olives across the dish. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown.
4. Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your easy and delicious weeknight pizza casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked pasta! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the sauce to prevent a watery casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole in the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it for an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
What Can I Use Instead of Pepperoni?
If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, feel free to substitute cooked sausage, ham, or even skip the meat for a veggie-packed version. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach work great as add-ins too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or sauce if it feels too dry.
