Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole Recipe

Craving the comfort of pizza but want to switch things up? This Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole delivers the irresistible flavors of a classic pizza in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole. With layers of gooey cheese, hearty beef, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Casserole:

  • 12 lasagna noodles or any pasta of choice (cooked and drained)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Beef Mixture:

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.

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Stir in marinara or pizza sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Layer the Casserole:

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture.

Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles or pasta.

Spread a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese over the noodles.

Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous topping of cheeses.

Bake:

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley, slice, and serve warm.

Tips

Add your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives for extra flavor.

Use a combination of cheeses for a rich, melty texture.

Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier kick.

Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for a quick weeknight meal.

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Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories

Approximately 450 calories per serving (depending on portion size and ingredient brands).

Conclusion

The Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional pizza that combines hearty flavors and cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you’re hosting a group of friends. The casserole’s simplicity in preparation makes it an excellent choice for beginner and experienced cooks alike.

By layering pasta, savory beef, and melty cheese, you create a dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Customize it with your favorite pizza toppings to make it truly your own. Whether served with a crisp salad or garlic bread, this casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Enjoy the satisfaction of a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Don’t forget to save some leftovers—it’s even better the next day!

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