Thirty minutes in there and you’ve got a comforting meal to sit down to!
This Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate mashup of two classic comfort meals—spaghetti and pizza—baked together into one cozy, cheesy dish. With layers of saucy noodles, flavorful meat, and your favorite pizza toppings, it’s a family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
Pizza Spaghetti Casserole
🧾 Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti noodles (uncooked) | 1 box (16 oz.) |
| Ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage) | 1 lb. |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Oregano | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Pepperoni slices | 2 oz. |
| Pasta sauce | 1 jar (26 oz.) |
| Diced Italian-style tomatoes | 1 can (16 oz.) |
| Shredded Italian cheese blend | 1 package (8 oz.) |
| Optional toppings | Black olives, sausage, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, etc. |
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Cook Pasta
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until fully browned. Season with salt, oregano, and garlic powder. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Mix Egg Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Toss this mixture with the cooked spaghetti until evenly coated.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the spaghetti mixture across the bottom. Layer with the cooked meat, then pour over the pasta sauce and diced tomatoes. Add any optional toppings of your choice. Sprinkle generously with the Italian cheese blend, and top with pepperoni slices.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy hot!
🍕 Tips & Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
- Meal prep friendly: Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
- Freezes well: Wrap tightly and freeze after baking; reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
