Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes but still crave the comforting flavors of pizza? Look no further than our delightful Pizza Spaghetti Casserole! This fusion dish combines the best of both worlds – the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting warmth of a spaghetti casserole. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious meal.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a quick and easy dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s also ideal for anyone craving the flavors of pizza but wanting to switch things up from the traditional pie. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, a pizza lover, or just someone looking to add some excitement to their dinner table, this Pizza Spaghetti Casserole is sure to please.
Why It’s Great
What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and simplicity. Using common pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a mouthwatering casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters, as you can customize the toppings to suit your preferences. With gooey cheese, savory sauce, and a hint of Italian seasoning, each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
To make Pizza Spaghetti Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and return the spaghetti to the pot.
- Add the marinara sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, black olives, green bell pepper, onion, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot with the spaghetti. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large pot for cooking spaghetti
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Cutting board and knife for slicing vegetables
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pizza Spaghetti Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic breadsticks for a complete meal. For drinks, try serving it with a glass of your favorite red wine or a refreshing Italian soda.
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