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This cheesy supreme pizza casserole transforms classic pizza flavors into a comforting, family-friendly pasta bake that delivers all the satisfaction of pizza night with minimal effort. The layers of pasta, rich cheese mixture, and traditional pizza toppings create a crowd-pleasing meal that brings everyone to the table.
I started making this casserole during busy sports seasons when we craved pizza but needed something more substantial. Now my family actually requests this over delivery pizza most weekends.
Ingredients
- Rotini pasta: Holds sauce in its spirals and creates the perfect chewy base for this dish
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy layer that mimics the best pizza crust
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that signature pizza pull when serving
- Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and rich umami flavor throughout the dish
- Heavy cream: Creates silky richness that binds everything together
- Marinara sauce: Brings authentic pizza flavor; look for one with herbs and garlic
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors, especially important in the pasta cooking water
- Fresh cracked pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity
- Pizza toppings: Allow for personalization, just like a regular pizza order
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add rotini and cook for exactly 1 minute less than package directions state. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so keeping it al dente now prevents mushiness later. Drain thoroughly and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Create the Cheese Base:
- In your baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella, 1 cup of Parmesan, and heavy cream. Season with a couple pinches of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Mix thoroughly until every pasta piece is coated in the creamy cheese mixture. This creates a luxurious base that will become irresistibly creamy when baked.
- Layer the Sauce:
- Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta mixture, spreading it evenly but leaving about an inch of the cheese pasta mixture visible around the edges. This creates a cheesy crust effect similar to a deep dish pizza. The sauce will sink slightly during baking, creating distinct layers of flavor.
- Add Remaining Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella and half cup of Parmesan over the sauce layer. This creates that bubbling, golden top layer that makes pizza so irresistible. Distribute the cheese evenly for consistent melting.
- Top Like a Pizza:
- Arrange your favorite pizza toppings across the cheese layer just as you would on a traditional pizza. Classic combinations work beautifully here pepperoni with mushrooms, or go vegetarian with peppers, onions and olives. The toppings will roast and caramelize during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes. This initial covered bake allows flavors to meld while preventing over-browning. Then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until the edges bubble vigorously and cheese melts completely. Finish with a quick broil to achieve that pizza parlor char on the cheese.
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The ricotta cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power accidentally when I was out of cream cheese for another pasta bake. The ricotta creates a silky texture that mimics the doughy satisfaction of pizza crust while adding a protein boost most pasta dishes lack.
Meal Prep Magic
This casserole actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. Make it on Sunday and portion into microwave safe containers for quick lunches throughout the week. The pasta stays tender without becoming mushy, and the cheese maintains its creamy texture even after reheating.
Customization Options
Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your favorite pizza variations. Try a white pizza version using alfredo sauce instead of marinara. Create a BBQ chicken pizza casserole with barbecue sauce, shredded chicken, red onions and cilantro. For spice lovers, add sliced jalapeños and substitute pepper jack for some of the mozzarella.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, especially for soaking up any extra sauce. For a complete pizza parlor experience, offer small dishes of ranch dressing, extra marinara, or spicy honey for dipping the cheesy edges.
Kid Friendly Adaptation
Children love this dish because it combines two favorites pasta and pizza. Make it a family activity by having each family member customize their own section with preferred toppings. Kids who might pick off pizza toppings often enjoy them more when they are integrated into a casserole. Serving in ramekins with each person's name and chosen toppings makes dinner both personal and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes first, then add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- → What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese makes an excellent substitute for ricotta. For a similar texture, blend it briefly to smooth it out. Alternatively, a cream cheese mixture (softened with a bit of milk) or mascarpone can work in a pinch.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works well because its spirals hold sauce and cheese, other medium-shaped pastas like penne, fusilli, or cavatappi would work equally well. Just be sure to cook to al dente as it will continue to soften while baking.
- → How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and focus on vegetable toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, and even spinach or artichoke hearts. You could also add plant-based pepperoni alternatives if desired.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. Garlic bread or breadsticks make excellent accompaniments to round out the meal, or try roasted vegetables for a healthier option.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion leftovers into airtight containers or wrap well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20-30 minutes.