Lisa'S Pizza Casserole
A hearty pizza casserole combining pasta, sausage, mushrooms, and cheese, perfect for comfort food lovers and a family-friendly dinner option with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the shell macaroni noodles until tender, then drain.
- Slice the hickory smoked sausage and brown it in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked noodles, browned sausage, sliced mushrooms, and pizza sauce in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Microwave the casserole for 4 minutes, turning halfway after 2 minutes, or bake in a conventional oven at 350°F for 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using pepperoni or diced bell peppers as additional toppings. You can also substitute the Ragu pizza sauce with homemade marinara for a fresher flavor. If you're looking to reduce calories, opt for turkey sausage instead of hickory smoked sausage. Cooking the noodles al dente is also recommended so they maintain texture during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with No. 2 Sausage Quiche for a brunch spread. For a fun twist, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh basil on top before serving for added flavor. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lisa'S Pizza Casserole contains roughly 343 calories, with 23g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (101% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 908mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the sausage?
If you're looking for alternatives to hickory smoked sausage, turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage can work well for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute to maintain the hearty feel of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your pizza casserole, mix in sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes along with the other ingredients. You can also choose a spicier pizza sauce or incorporate spicy sausage for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).