Pizza Pasta Casserole

Ingredients Needed

• Mild Italian turkey sausage or lean ground beef - Is considered better than higher fat options for several reasons. First, it has less saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues. Additionally, it tends to have fewer calories per serving, making it a good option for those watching their weight. The 96% lean ground beef from Aldi is my favorite.
• Medium onion, chopped (optional)
• Clove garlic, minced - Chopped fresh garlic can take some time to chop so I often always use the freshly minced garlic that comes already made in a jar. 
• Italian seasoning - Is a popular blend of herbs and spices that typically includes a mix of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and sometimes garlic powder or dried red pepper flakes.
• Spaghetti sauce (I used Preggo Heart Smart) - Store bought jarred marinara sauce is convenient to have at home for a quick meal.  My favorite marinara sauce is always Rao’s because it has all clean ingredients on the back of the ingredients list
• Rotini pasta, cooked and drained
• Fat-free mozzarella cheese - Reduced-Fat Cheese has a lower calorie count and less saturated fat than regular cheese, but it may also have a different taste and texture. It also helps with keeping the calorie count pretty low for this recipe. 
• Turkey pepperoni - Is lower in calories than regular pepperoni.
• See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.

Substitution Tips

• Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber
• Swap turkey sausage for ground chicken or plant based crumbles
• Add mushrooms spinach or bell peppers for more volume
• Use part skim mozzarella for better melt
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for spice
• Use homemade marinara to reduce sodium and sugar
• These simple swaps allow you to customize the casserole based on your goals or what you have on hand.

How to Make Pizza Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°. In a large skillet, cook sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain any access fat.

Step 2: Stir in spaghetti sauce and pasta.

Step 3: Transfer to 13x9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and arrange pepperoni over the top.

Bake, uncovered, 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

What To Serve With Pizza Pasta

Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Simple green salad
Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli
Antipasto plate
Tortellini Ceasar Salad

Balancing the richness of baked pasta with fresh vegetables makes the meal feel more complete.

Pro Tips For Best Results

Do not overcook pasta before baking
Freshly shredded cheese melts better
Let casserole rest before slicing
Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick
Double recipe and freeze half for later

Storage And Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

This casserole freezes very well. Assemble and freeze before baking for an easy future dinner.

Reheat with extra sauce or a splash of water to keep pasta creamy.