Tina'S Pizza Casserole
A hearty pizza casserole combining ground beef, sausage, pasta, and classic pizza flavors topped with mozzarella and pepperoni, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook ground beef, sausage, and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Combine cooked meat and onion with tomato sauce, Cheddar cheese soup, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in cooked macaroni noodles.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, consider using pre-cooked sausage or ground beef to save time. You can also substitute the macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand. If you want a vegetarian option, try using canned meatballs or a meat substitute. Adjust the seasonings to your taste – a bit of crushed red pepper can add a nice kick!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a cheesy breadstick also pairs beautifully with this dish. Consider topping your slice with fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra flavor. A glass of red wine could nicely complement the robust flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tina'S Pizza Casserole contains roughly 425 calories, with 25g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (88% of the Daily Value), iron (83% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1971mg per serving (86% 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 a day in advance. Just assemble it and store it covered in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese soup?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cheese sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. Just mix in some shredded cheddar cheese for flavor. This will maintain the creamy texture of the casserole.
How can I make it spicier?
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of regular sausage for an extra kick. Adjust the seasonings according to your heat preference.
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).