When it comes to cozy and delicious meals, this Pizza Pasta Casserole is a true winner for busy nights or when you’re craving the comforting flavors of pizza and pasta combined. This freezer-friendly recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as you can make a big batch and freeze portions for later. Packed with classic pizza ingredients and hearty pasta, this casserole is a family-friendly dish that is sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.
**Pizza Pasta Casserole Freezer**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 pound ground Italian sausage
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Pepperoni slices, for topping
– Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the pizza sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the casserole. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top in a single layer.
9. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired, before serving.
Enjoy this cheesy and flavorful Pizza Pasta Casserole straight from the oven, or let it cool completely before portioning it out for the freezer. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
This make-ahead Pizza Pasta Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a tasty leftover meal. With simple ingredients and a comforting taste, this freezer-friendly recipe will make mealtime a breeze and bring smiles to your family’s faces. Give it a try and savor the delightful marriage of pizza and pasta in one satisfying dish!
