Name: Supreme Pizza Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups marinara sauce; ½ cup sliced black olives; ½ cup diced green bell pepper; ½ cup diced red bell pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup sliced pepperoni; 2 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste

If you love pizza night but crave the cozy comfort of a bubbling casserole, this Supreme Pizza Casserole is about to become your new obsession! Imagine everything you adore about a loaded supreme pizza-tangy marinara, melty cheese, savory meats, and crispy veggies-transformed into an easy baked sensation.

Each bite is packed with all the bold, crave-worthy flavors of classic pizza, plus the irresistible texture of baked pasta. It's a crowd-pleasing, fuss-free dish the whole family will beg for again and again.

Super quick to assemble and perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or family gatherings, this casserole is as fun to make as it is to eat. It's inspired by my love for everything pizza, with a twist that means second helpings are mandatory!

Supreme Pizza Casserole baked in a pan with bubbling cheese and pepperoni slices

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Delivers all the best pizza flavors in a single, crowd-pleasing bake.
Quick and simple prep-perfect for weeknights or feeding a hungry group.
Totally customizable with your favorite toppings and add-ins.
Great make-ahead and freezer-friendly option for busy schedules.

Key Ingredients for Supreme Pizza Casserole

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Italian Sausage

Italian sausage brings hearty, savory depth and a little kick of spice to the casserole, mimicking the meatiness of a loaded pizza. You can use mild or hot based on preference. Be sure to crumble it as it cooks for even distribution. Substitute with ground beef, turkey, or leave it out for a vegetarian version-just note the flavor profile will change.

Pepperoni

Nothing says "pizza" quite like classic pepperoni! Sliced pepperoni delivers bursts of salty, spicy meatiness and turns delightfully crispy on top. For a lighter option, try turkey pepperoni, or swap in Canadian bacon or veggie pepperoni for dietary needs.

Bell Peppers

Fresh bell peppers add sweet crunch, bright color, and a veggie boost. I love using a mix of red and green pepper, diced small for even bites. Feel free to use whatever color you have or add other veggies like mushrooms or spinach for extra goodness.

Marinara Sauce

A good-quality marinara sauce is essential for that signature pizza tang and sauciness. Go for your favorite jarred brand or homemade. If you like extra zip, mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.

Mozzarella Cheese

Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and brings the gooey, stretchy factor we all crave in pizza. For the ultimate cheesy top, combine with a little Parmesan or provolone. Use part-skim for a lighter version, or sub with dairy-free cheese if needed.

Instructions for Supreme Pizza Casserole

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rotini and cook just until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Stir in diced onion and both bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine the Base

Lower heat to medium. Mix in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and black olives. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors. Turn off heat and stir in cooked pasta, 1 cup mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper as needed.

Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Arrange pepperoni slices on top (add extra veggies, too, if you like).

Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. Broil for 2 minutes at the end for especially crisp, browned edges if you like.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Scoop onto plates, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot!

Recipe Variations

Make It Meatless

Skip the sausage and pepperoni for a vegetarian version. Add more veggies like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for hearty texture and flavor.

Add Some Heat

If you love spice, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or swap in spicy Italian sausage. Banana pepper rings or jalapeños also amp up the flavor!

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for regular pasta. Just be sure to slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn't get mushy during baking.

Extra Cheesy

Double up on the mozzarella or add provolone and fontina for a super gooey, cheesy casserole. A little ricotta dolloped on top before baking is heavenly.

Lower Carb Twist

Replace half or all of the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini "noodles" for a lighter, veggie-forward take.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Supreme Pizza Casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian dressing and a side of warm garlic bread for a complete meal. For added color and freshness, sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley before serving. A simple fruit salad or roasted veggies make great accompaniments too!

Storage and Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before covering and refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or warm the whole casserole, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. This casserole also freezes well-wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Supreme Pizza Casserole (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Supreme Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking when ready.

Q: What other toppings can I add to the casserole?

A: Feel free to mix in or top with mushrooms, cooked bacon, ham, sun-dried tomatoes, or jalapeños to customize with your favorite pizza flavors.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, Supreme Pizza Casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.

Satisfy pizza cravings and comfort food hunger all in one dish with this irresistible Supreme Pizza Casserole! It's easy, cheesy, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let me know what you think-leave a comment and a star rating below!