Pizza Casserole: A Delightful Weeknight Treat for Large Groups
Welcome to Love with Recipes, where we bring you the most delectable and heartwarming recipes to make every meal a celebration. Today, we are excited to share with you a fantastic recipe that combines the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting appeal of a casserole: the Pizza Casserole. Perfect for feeding a large group, this dish is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun-filled gathering with friends and family. Let’s dive into the details and discover how you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Name: Pizza Casserole
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Description: Make and share this Pizza Casserole recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
Category: Weeknight
Keywords: For Large Groups, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 826
- Fat Content: 55.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 24.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 172.3mg
- Sodium Content: 3097.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 36.4g
- Fiber Content: 4.3g
- Sugar Content: 11.2g
- Protein Content: 43.7g
Servings and Yield
- Servings: 14
Ingredients and Quantities
- 500g ham
- 250g parmesan cheese
- 250g colby cheese
- 1/2 onion
- 4 tomatoes
- 1 mushroom
- 1 green pepper
- 1 stewed tomato
- 2 Italian-style tomato sauce
- 1 oregano
- 1 basil
- 1 cayenne pepper
- 1 garlic
- 1 elbow macaroni (amount not specified, but typically 1 pound or 450g)
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Add all ingredients, except pasta and cheese, into a large pot. This includes the ham, parmesan cheese, colby cheese, onion, tomatoes, mushrooms, green pepper, stewed tomatoes, Italian-style tomato sauce, oregano, basil, cayenne pepper, and garlic.
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Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat, and allow it to simmer for at least one hour. This slow simmering process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory base for your casserole.
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Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Ensure that it is al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
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Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the macaroni thoroughly to remove any excess water.
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Layer the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, layer the ingredients as follows:
- Start with half of the cooked macaroni, spreading it evenly at the bottom of the dish.
- Pour half of the sauce mixture over the macaroni.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining macaroni, sauce, and cheese.
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Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake for 34 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting, pizza-like flavors in every bite.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pizza Casserole
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, you can add pepperoni, sausage, or different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add more vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the dish. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pizza Casserole is a delightful fusion of two comfort food classics – pizza and casserole. It brings together the robust flavors of pizza sauce, cheese, and a variety of toppings in a hearty, baked form that is easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, from the tender pasta to the gooey, melted cheese and the flavorful, savory sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any weeknight meal or special occasion.
By following this recipe, you will not only create a delicious meal but also make cherished memories with your loved ones as you gather around the table to enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure with our Pizza Casserole. Happy cooking!
