Pizza Spaghetti Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful casserole combining spaghetti, mozzarella, pepperoni, and mushrooms, baked to bubbly perfection—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1 stick of margarine in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Toss cooked, drained spaghetti in melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Layer 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
- Add drained sliced mushrooms on top of the cheese.
- Arrange pepperoni slices over the mushrooms.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the pepperoni and top with remaining 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbly.
- Let rest for 15 to 20 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free alternative. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier fat option. If you love vegetables, add some bell peppers or spinach to enhance the dish and incorporate more nutrients. For added flavor, try sprinkling some Italian herbs like oregano and basil before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza Spaghetti Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside Hot Sausages And Peppers for a hearty feast. For a casual gathering, consider offering a variety of toppings on the side for guests to customize their servings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 576 calories, with 8g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (99% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 ahead of time by assembling it up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute pepperoni with cooked crumbled Italian sausage or diced ham. For a vegetarian option, try adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a flavorful twist.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
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).