Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole

If you love the comforting flavors of pizza but want something a bit more hearty and cozy, this Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful fusion of your favorite pizza toppings and pasta baked together with plenty of gooey cheese. With rotini pasta soaking up all the rich tomato sauce and spices, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone who craves that classic pizza taste in a new, fun form. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so reliable and how you can whip it up yourself.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole stands out because it combines familiar, trusted ingredients with straightforward steps that anyone can follow. The use of rotini pasta ensures every bite is coated in sauce and cheese, while a blend of Italian herbs enhances the authentic pizza flavor. Ground beef or turkey provides a satisfying protein element, and the two types of cheese—mozzarella and Parmesan—create that irresistible, melty texture we all love. Plus, the recipe is adaptable, letting you swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding family or a group of friends, this casserole delivers consistent results with minimal fuss.

What to Buy

• 8 ounces rotini pasta – Twisted pasta shapes that hold sauce perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the meat and vegetables.
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey – Choose your preferred lean protein.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that savory punch.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped – Red or green, for color and crunch.
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – The base of the sauce, rich and smooth.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds texture and freshness.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Italian herb for flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Sweet and aromatic.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend to tie it all together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To balance and enhance all flavors.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that melty, stretchy goodness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and depth.

What’s in the Gear List

• Large pot – To cook the pasta.
• Large skillet – For sautéing the meat and veggies.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – For stirring ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size for assembling and baking the casserole.
• Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
• Measuring spoons – For precise seasoning.

Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce and 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes with their juice into the skillet. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, dried basil, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of cheesy, saucy, and savory bites.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Protein: Swap ground beef or turkey for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese: Use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives for a dairy-free option.
• Pasta: Substitute rotini with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta as preferred.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Chef’s Notes

• For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half into the sauce before mixing with pasta.
• Leftover casserole can be reheated in the microwave or oven and tastes even better the next day.
• Don’t skip the Parmesan—it adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Feel free to experiment with spices; a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. After baking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Quick Q&A

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works perfectly as a lean protein alternative and will absorb the sauce flavors nicely.

How do I make this casserole spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce during cooking or top the casserole with sliced jalapeños before baking for a spicy kick.

Can I freeze the Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze the casserole before baking in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or some garlic knots like Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread make perfect sides to complement the casserole.

Keep Cooking

• Try the fun and flavorful Zucchini Pizza Bites for a light appetizer.
• For an outdoor twist on classic pizza, check out the Margherita Pizza On The Grill.
• Love cheesy breads? Don’t miss the Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread recipe.

Next Steps

Now that you’re equipped with a mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole, gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation, bringing the best of pizza and pasta together in one satisfying meal. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings or add your own twist to make it uniquely yours. Happy baking and bon appétit!

This Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into a cheesy, comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for any night of the week. Rich tomato sauce, tender rotini pasta, and a generous blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese make each bite a delicious celebration of classic Italian-inspired comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this casserole is sure to hit the spot every time.

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