Spaghetti-Pizza Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining spaghetti, savory meat sauce, pepperoni, and melted cheeses, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and place in a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine milk and eggs; stir well and pour over the cooked spaghetti.
- Cook ground beef, onion, and green pepper in a large skillet until beef crumbles; drain well.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce and spoon the mixture over the spaghetti in the pan.
- Layer sliced mushrooms and pepperoni on top of the sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheeses are melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add a bit more milk or a dollop of cream to the egg mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. If you prefer, swap out the mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor. Adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil can enhance the taste, similar to what you might find in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spaghetti-Pizza Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of Italian Bean Casserole for a diverse flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti-Pizza Casserole contains roughly 1118 calories, with 38g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (81% of the Daily Value), protein (76% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% 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 up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce on hand, you can use marinara sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just ensure it's seasoned well, as this will impact the overall flavor of the dish. For a twist, consider using a pesto sauce for a unique flavor profile.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding some extra time if needed to ensure it heats through.
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).