Pizzeria Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful casserole combining pasta, pizza sauce, and pepperoni, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with a comforting, pizza-inspired taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Mostaccidi pasta for 7 minutes, then drain.
- Combine pizza sauce, sliced pepperoni, and 1 cup of cheese in a 1-1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake covered for 35 minutes or until bubbly hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier casserole, consider adding cooked sausage or bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have Mostaccidi, other pasta shapes like penne or rotini will work well. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses, to enhance the flavor. If you're a fan of spicy food, add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizzeria Casserole makes a great main dish and pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Chili Buns for a casual gathering. Feel free to top with fresh basil or oregano before serving for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizzeria Casserole contains roughly 176 calories, with 8g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% 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 and refrigerate it before baking. Just ensure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of pizza sauce?
If you don't have pizza sauce, marinara or spaghetti sauce can be a good substitute. You can also try a homemade version by blending crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs, garlic, and onion for a fresher taste.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The combination of pasta, cheese, and pepperoni makes it appealing to kids. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables or using different toppings to suit your family's preferences.
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).