When you’re craving the comforting flavors of pizza but want something hearty enough for a family dinner, this Cheesy Pepperoni Beef Pizza Bake is the perfect answer. It combines seasoned ground beef, savory pepperoni, rich pizza sauce, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese in one bubbling casserole.
This easy oven-baked meal has all the flavors you love about a classic pepperoni pizza, but with a satisfying casserole-style texture. It is simple enough for a busy weeknight and delicious enough to serve when friends or family come over. The ingredients are affordable, easy to find, and flexible enough to accommodate your favorite pizza toppings.
Ingredients
For about 6 servings, you will need:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 8 ounces rotini, penne, or ziti pasta
- 1 ½ cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms, optional
- ½ cup diced bell pepper, optional
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Prepare the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it is just slightly firm.
Avoid overcooking the pasta because it will continue cooking in the oven. Once finished, drain it well and set it aside.
A short pasta shape such as rotini, penne, or ziti works particularly well because the sauce coats the pasta and stays tucked inside the casserole.
Brown the Beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, until it begins to soften.
Add the ground beef and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
If there is a large amount of excess grease in the skillet, drain it before continuing.
Add the Pizza Flavors
Stir the pizza sauce into the cooked beef and let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine and creates a rich, savory sauce.
If you are using mushrooms or bell peppers, add them to the skillet and cook until slightly tender. You can also add chopped olives, spinach, jalapeños, or any other favorite pizza toppings.
Cut half of the pepperoni slices into smaller pieces and stir them into the beef mixture. Keep the remaining slices for the top of the casserole.
Assemble the Bake
Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
Add the cooked pasta to a large bowl. Pour the beef and pizza sauce mixture over it and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with part of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Add the remaining pasta mixture and spread it evenly.
Top with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices across the surface.
The pepperoni will become slightly crisp around the edges as the casserole bakes, creating a delicious pizza-like topping.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted and the edges are bubbling.
For an extra golden top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully because the cheese and pepperoni can brown quickly.
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period helps the layers settle and makes the casserole easier to scoop.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a bright finishing touch.
Easy Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. For a spicy version, use hot Italian sausage alongside the beef or add sliced jalapeños and extra crushed red pepper.
For a supreme pizza variation, add mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and black olives. You can also replace some of the ground beef with Italian sausage for an even richer flavor.
If you prefer chicken, cooked diced chicken can replace the beef. For a vegetable-heavy version, increase the mushrooms, peppers, onions, and spinach.
You can also experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or an Italian cheese blend can be combined with mozzarella for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This casserole is excellent for meal preparation. Assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
When ready to cook, remove it from the refrigerator while the oven preheats. You may need to add several extra minutes to the baking time.
Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoyed within 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven until heated through.
The casserole can also be frozen after cooling completely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy pizza bake with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. Garlic bread also makes a delicious side if you want an especially comforting meal.
For extra pizza-shop flavor, sprinkle each serving with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes just before eating.
