Irresistible Pizza Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This delightful Pizza Casserole, brimming with flavors and textures that evoke the comforting essence of a traditional pizza, is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a heartfelt gesture for friends welcoming a new baby into their lives. Its rich combination of ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey mozzarella cheese creates a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart. Having prepared this dish for a dear friend, I can attest to its ability to foster joy and connection—after all, a casserole so good that it prompts thoughts of adding another child is certainly a dish worth making!
Cooking Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Recipe Category | Meat |
| Rating | 4.5 (6 Reviews) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 685.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 39.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 169.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1056.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 3.3 g |
| Protein | 42.2 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ground beef |
| 1 ½ | Onion (chopped) |
| ½ | Bell pepper (chopped) |
| ½ | Mozzarella cheese (shredded) |
| 1 | Pizza sauce |
| 1 | Cream of mushroom soup |
| 1 | Pepperoni slices |
| 1 | Egg noodles |
Instructions
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Prepare the Noodles: Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and then transfer them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom to create a sturdy base for your casserole.
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Cook the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Sauté this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the ground beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
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Combine with Sauces: To the skillet with the drained meat and vegetable mixture, stir in the pizza sauce and cream of mushroom soup. Mix everything together thoroughly until the meat and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce, enhancing the flavors and creating a delicious filling.
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Assemble the Casserole: Carefully pour the meat and sauce mixture over the noodles in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure every noodle gets a taste of the savory filling.
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Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes. Next, artfully arrange the pepperoni slices atop the cheese for that classic pizza appeal.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Bake, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that everyone will love.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Slice into generous portions, savoring each bite of this hearty and comforting dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones or for enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Pizza Casserole is a delightful meal that brings a touch of joy to any table, combining the flavors of beloved pizza in a warm and comforting casserole format. It’s an ideal choice for busy nights, family gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift for friends. With its rich taste and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every mouthful of this culinary embrace that speaks of love and care, making every occasion a little more special.
Keywords
Kid Friendly, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven
