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Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
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This Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Casserole combines all the comforting, classic flavors of pizza into one easy and hearty baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying pizza cravings, this casserole layers savory Italian sausage, zesty pepperoni, melty mozzarella, and tangy marinara with pasta, baked until golden and bubbly. A delicious one-dish meal loved by the whole family, with options for customization and great leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Meats

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni

Cheeses

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta

Sauces & Seasonings

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage: Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
  2. Prepare the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain well to prevent mushiness after baking.
  3. Combine Sauce and Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked sausage, drained pasta, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, sliced pepperoni, and Italian seasoning or fresh basil, making sure everything is evenly coated and mixed.
  4. Assemble in a Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Add extra pepperoni slices if desired for presentation.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Notes

  • Drain excess fat after browning sausage to avoid an oily casserole.
  • Do not overcook pasta; cooking al dente prevents mushiness.
  • Layer cheeses for gooey texture and cheesy flavor in every bite.
  • Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for better slicing and serving.
  • Use fresh basil or oregano for a bright, aromatic flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza casserole, sausage pizza casserole, pepperoni casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, one dish meal, Italian sausage, family favorite

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/sausage-and-pepperoni-pizza-casserole/