Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole is a simple and tasty dish that brings together all the flavors of your favorite pizza in one easy bake. It’s packed with gooey melted cheese, tangy tomato sauce, pepperoni, and a golden, crispy crust that makes dinner feel like a fun treat without the fuss of ordering out.
I love making this casserole on busy nights when I want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time to cook. The best part is how flexible it is—you can add your favorite toppings or swap out veggies for more color and flavor. I usually sprinkle a little extra cheese on top so it gets that perfect, melty crust that makes everyone smile.
Serving it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread turns this casserole into a whole meal that’s great for sharing with family or friends. It’s one of those dishes that warms you up and feels like a hug in food form. I find myself coming back to this recipe again and again when I want dinner to be simple, tasty, and satisfying all at once.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini or elbow macaroni works great here because they hold sauce well. If you want a gluten-free version, try gluten-free pasta or small shells that catch the sauce nicely.
Pizza Sauce: A good-quality pizza or marinara sauce makes a big difference. If you can’t find pizza sauce, tomato sauce mixed with garlic and herbs is a simple swap.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza stretch. If you want less dairy, try part-skim mozzarella or a plant-based mozzarella alternative.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni adds great flavor and bite-sized fun. For a vegetarian version, use sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or vegan pepperoni slices.
Black Olives: These bring a nice salty contrast. If you’re not a fan, try green olives or chopped roasted red peppers for a different twist.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Melted and Golden Cheese Topping?
The cheese topping is the star of this casserole—melty and golden with a little crisp on the edges. Here’s how to nail it:
- Layer your mozzarella evenly to cover the surface; this helps with even melting.
- Add Parmesan on top to help brown the cheese and add sharp flavor.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) so the heat crisps the edges without burning.
- Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 5 minutes. If the cheese isn’t golden yet, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Letting it rest after baking helps the cheese set a bit, making serving easier and more satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and serving a family-sized casserole.
- Large pot – cooks the pasta evenly without crowding.
- Colander – makes draining pasta quick and easy.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps mix the sauce and pasta without scratching your pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage for a spicier, meatier flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to boost veggie content and add color.
- Mix in some fresh basil or spinach for a fresh, green twist.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a sharper taste.
Easy Weeknight Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni sliced thin)
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or dried oregano
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy pizza casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. Including resting time, plan for roughly 45 minutes total to get this delicious meal on the table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta and Sauce Mix:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water following package directions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot. Stir in olive oil, pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning until the pasta is evenly coated.
2. Layer the Casserole:
Put half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over this layer. Add half the pepperoni slices and half the sliced black olives on top of the cheese. Next, add the remaining pasta mixture evenly on top, then cover that with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over everything, then top with the remaining pepperoni and olives for a nice finish.
3. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried oregano if you like, then serve warm and enjoy a cheesy, comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can I Use Different Pasta Types for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While rotini or elbow macaroni work best for holding the sauce, you can use penne, shells, or even rigatoni. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also use vegetarian or vegan pepperoni alternatives if you want to keep that classic flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers and Reheat?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
