Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole Recipe

A perfect family dinner—loaded with flavor, melty cheese, and pizza vibes in every bite!

Ingredients:

• 500g ground beef (or lamb for a richer flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups pizza or marinara sauce

• 1 cup pasta (elbow, penne, or fusilli) – cooked and drained

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• 10–12 slices of pepperoni (optional, or use olives/mushrooms for veg version)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium baking dish.

2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Brown the beef:

   • In a large skillet, add ground beef and cook over medium heat.

   • Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.

   • Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until meat is browned and fully cooked.

4. Add the sauce:

   • Pour in the pizza/marinara sauce and mix well.

   • Let it simmer on low for 5 minutes.

5. Mix pasta & beef:

   • In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Mix until evenly coated.

6. Assemble the casserole:

   • Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish.

   • Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

   • Arrange pepperoni slices or any toppings you love over the cheese.

7. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.

8. Garnish & Serve:

   • Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Kids love it! It reheats beautifully too—perfect for leftovers.

Tips & Variations:

• Swap ground beef with chicken mince or even mushroom-lentil mix for a vegetarian option.

• Want it spicy? Add chili flakes or jalapeños!

• For extra “pizza” flavor, mix in a few chopped black olives or green capsicum.