The Best Pasta Pizza Casserole Recipe – Baked Pasta Pizza Hut Style
A delicious pasta pizza casserole that combines the best flavors of pizza and baked pasta in one cheesy, flavorful dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep!
Equipment
- 9x13-inch Baking Dish
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta or rigatoni, cooked al dente
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce and Filling
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups pizza sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
For the Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20 slices pepperoni or preferred toppings
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives optional
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup mushrooms sliced, optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture and mix well.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cheese, pepperoni, black olives, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
