Pizza Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Let’s Get Cooking!

Step 1: Prep Work

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil salted water, add spaghetti, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Brown the sausage (or beef) in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine half the meat sauce with the cooked spaghetti.
2. Spread the spaghetti mixture in the baking dish.
3. Pour the remaining sauce over the spaghetti.
4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add pepperoni, olives, and green peppers.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.
3. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh basil (optional).
2. Serve warm and savor every bite!

Tips & Tricks

• Meat Choice: Italian sausage adds extra flavor, but ground beef or turkey are great alternatives.
• Pasta Perfection: Cook spaghetti al dente; it’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Topping Fun: Add your favorite pizza toppings – mushrooms, bacon, pineapple – go wild!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
• Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage and add more red pepper flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Refrigerate, then bake, adding 5-10 minutes if cold.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes! Freeze the *unbaked* casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

What to Serve It With?

A simple salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are perfect sides.

This Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The delicious combination of pizza and pasta in one hearty meal makes it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!