Who doesn’t love pizza in any form? This Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect weeknight dinner for your family. It’s like having pizza in a casserole dish!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb cooked Italian sausage
– 1 cup pepperoni slices
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can pizza sauce
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, bell pepper, onion, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix the pasta and sauce mixture with the sausage and cheese mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 23g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Protein: 25g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
– Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
2. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
– Absolutely! Feel free to add any additional vegetables of your choice.
3. Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
– Yes, you can substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
– Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, just make sure to dice them before adding.
5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses for a unique flavor.
8. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
– Yes, you can omit the sausage and pepperoni for a vegetarian version.
9. Can I add extra spices for more flavor?
– Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
10. Can I add extra toppings like olives or mushrooms?
– Yes, feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings to customize the casserole.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick to the casserole.
2. Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
3. Experiment with different types of sausage for variety.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of freshness.
5. Try adding a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
6. Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
7. Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for added freshness.
8. For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking.
9. Leftover casserole can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
10. Get creative with your toppings – try adding some pineapple or jalapenos for a twist.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Sautéing the onions and bell peppers before adding to the casserole can enhance their flavor.
2. Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld.
3. Using a quality pizza sauce can significantly impact the overall taste of the casserole.
4. Opt for a high-quality mozzarella cheese for that perfect stretchy, gooey texture.
5. Experiment with different types of Italian seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
6. Pre-cooking the pasta slightly al dente ensures it won’t become mushy in the casserole.
7. Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
8. Layer the ingredients evenly in the dish for a well-balanced casserole.
9. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences to customize the flavor profile.
10. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touches to make this casserole truly your own.
