Pizza Casserole(Teacher'S Favorite)
A comforting pizza casserole combining pepperoni, mozzarella, and flavorful herbs, layered with pasta and cheese for a satisfying family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the sliced pepperoni for 5 minutes in enough water to cover, then drain.
- Saute chopped onion in 1 1/3 tablespoons melted butter until translucent.
- Cook the thin spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a casserole dish, layer cooked spaghetti, drained pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, and grated Swiss cheese.
- Pour tomato sauce over the layers.
- Sprinkle oregano and basil over the top.
- Add sliced mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of pepperoni or mixing in some cooked ground beef. You can also substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar or provolone for a different taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be used. Make sure to drain the pasta well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a marinara dipping sauce for an extra touch. It's great for potlucks or as a family-friendly dinner, and leftovers make for a quick lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Casserole(Teacher'S Favorite) contains roughly 359 calories, with 20g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (99% of the Daily Value), calcium (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. At about 359 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, you can substitute with a combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to keep the total amount similar to maintain the casserole's consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté any fresh vegetables before layering to reduce moisture in the casserole.
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).