If you love classic pepperoni pizza but want something hearty, cheesy, and perfect for feeding a crowd, this Loaded Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. It has all the flavors of your favorite slice—savory meat, melty cheese, rich sauce, and crispy pepperoni—baked into one irresistible casserole.
Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or potlucks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ All the flavors of pizza in casserole form
- ✅ Family-friendly and kid-approved
- ✅ Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
- ✅ Great for meal prep
- ✅ Freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Italian blend cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: sliced black olives, bell peppers, mushrooms
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add diced onion and cook until softened (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Pour in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with meat sauce. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Add pepperoni slices evenly over the top. Sprinkle with additional seasoning if desired.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy while baking.
- For extra cheesy goodness, mix some mozzarella into the pasta before topping.
- Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for crispy, golden cheese.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Supreme Version: Add bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for cauliflower florets.
- Chicken Pizza Casserole: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
- Extra Meaty: Add cooked bacon or ham.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- A simple green salad
Final Thoughts
Loaded Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is cheesy, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast. It delivers everything you love about pizza in a hearty baked dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.