Pizza Casserole

No need to choose between pizza or pasta when the family craves an Italian dinner—this pizza casserole has it all! Think of this dish as a cheesy pasta bake that stopped by your local pizza joint for layers of pepperoni, banana peppers, black olives, and fresh mozzarella pearls. Those layers are key to this casserole recipe, giving you a little bit of everything in every scoop. Start with this classic recipe, then riff where you'd like (just like you would at a pizzeria). Swap in sautéed mushrooms or spinach, go vegetarian with meatless crumbles instead of pork, or use spicy Italian sausage for extra kick. 

What is cavatappi pasta? 

Cavatappi pasta looks like a loose corkscrew (what the pasta means in Italian). This pasta shape is ideal for casseroles because it's sturdy enough to be boiled and baked without falling apart and can cling to lots of cheese and toppings. 

Can marinara sauce be used instead of crushed tomatoes?

Since jarred marinara can vary in thickness and flavor (some are spicier, herbier, sweeter, or tangier than others), it's best to stick with canned crushed tomatoes for this recipe. One large and one medium can of crushed tomatoes will provide just enough liquid for the casserole and won't overshadow the meats and veggies. 

What are mozzarella pearls?

Mozzarella pearls are mini balls of fresh mozzarella. You'll find them in plastic containers in the specialty cheese section. Besides this casserole, try adding them to an Italian pasta salad or chopped salad, or to an appetizer platter with olives and veggies.