The “A Whole Lotta Pizza Casserole” is a delicious and hearty dish that captures the flavors of a classic pizza in a casserole format. It’s a popular recipe that’s perfect for gatherings and family dinners. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe:
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups sliced pepperoni
- 3 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the sliced pepperoni and cooked pasta. Mix well.
- Add the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into a large casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the cheese mixture.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Time Needed:
- Preparation time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Cooking time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of pizza with the convenience of a casserole. It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit among pizza and casserole lovers alike. Enjoy your “A Whole Lotta Pizza Casserole” creation!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for the “A Whole Lotta Pizza Casserole” recipe:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 960mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g
Health Information:
- The casserole is rich in protein from the Italian sausage, cheese, and ground meat, which helps with muscle maintenance and growth.
- The moderate fat content contributes to the dish’s richness but should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re conscious of saturated fat intake.
- The casserole includes vegetables like onions and bell peppers, adding fiber and essential nutrients to the dish.
- The sodium content is relatively high due to the presence of processed meats like pepperoni and sausage. Consider using low-sodium alternatives or reducing the amount of added salt.
- While this casserole is delicious and satisfying, it’s recommended to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods throughout the day.
- If you have dietary restrictions or health concerns, you can modify the recipe by using leaner meats, opting for whole wheat pasta, and using reduced-fat cheese to make it a bit healthier.
Remember that these nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
