Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or macaroni)
- 1 ½ cups pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- Optional toppings: sliced mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers
Instructions:
- Cook the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, pasta, and pizza sauce. Add half the mozzarella and stir until combined.
- Assemble: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and any additional toppings.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy: Let it cool slightly, then serve!
Where to Find This Recipe Around the World
New York City – Quick Comfort Food
Known for its bustling food scene, NYC embraces creative pizza variations. If you’re traveling there, take inspiration from their love for mixing global flavors. Add vegetables like mushrooms and olives from the city’s farmers’ markets to enhance your Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole.
Naples, Italy – The Birthplace of Pizza
If you’re visiting Naples, the home of traditional pizza, you’ll find the roots of this casserole in the rich flavors of pizza sauce and mozzarella. While casseroles aren’t typical in Italian cuisine, the combination of pasta, beef, and cheese is reminiscent of pasticcio di carne, a baked pasta dish that locals love. Bring some authentic fior di latte mozzarella or fresh basil from Naples to recreate this dish at home.
Chicago, USA – Deep Dish Inspiration
The casserole’s cheesy layers resemble Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza. If you find yourself in Chicago, explore their take on pizza, which is baked like a pie with plenty of sauce and toppings. Inspired by this, your casserole can include Italian sausage or layers of cheese for that extra indulgence.
Barcelona, Spain – Local Ingredients Add a Twist
While in Barcelona, pick up locally cured meats like chorizo or jamón serrano to give the casserole a Spanish flair. Incorporate some manchego cheese instead of mozzarella, and you’ve got a delicious fusion dish that pays homage to Spain’s bold flavors.