Pizza Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful fusion of two classic comfort foods—pizza and pasta. This delicious casserole combines the best elements of pizza, like tangy marinara sauce, savory pepperoni, melted cheese, and Italian seasonings, with hearty spaghetti. It’s the perfect meal for those times when you can’t decide between pizza or pasta! Easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults, Pizza Spaghetti is ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a cheesy, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef (optional)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Meat (if using):
- In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage or ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, cooked meat (if using), garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well-coated.
- Layer the Pizza Toppings:
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread an even layer of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Arrange the pepperoni slices, bell peppers, and black olives over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Pizza Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort dish, combining the savory flavors of pizza with the heartiness of spaghetti, making it a hit with both pasta and pizza lovers alike!
