My Italian Casserole
A hearty Italian casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, pepperoni, flavorful basil, and melted mozzarella, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef and chopped onion, then drain the fat.
- Add the Ragu sauce, basil, garlic powder, salt, and sliced pepperoni to the saucepan and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, mix the cooked and drained rotini noodles with the sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dish, consider substituting ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat rotini for added fiber. If you want extra flavor, add some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian casserole hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Stuffed Italiano Green Peppers. This dish also makes a great option for meal prep, as it reheats well throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through, or place the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Italian Casserole contains roughly 127 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1268mg per serving (55% 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 freeze the Italian casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
What can I use instead of Ragu sauce?
You can substitute Ragu sauce with any marinara or homemade tomato sauce. If you want a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or some crushed tomatoes with herbs to your homemade sauce.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice rotini or gluten-free penne. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the sauce and cheese, are also certified gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).