Pizza Pasta Recipe

Who doesn’t love the delicious combination of pizza and pasta? This Pizza Pasta recipe combines all the flavors of a classic pizza in a comforting pasta dish that will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 12 ounces rotini pasta
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 (14-ounce) jars of pizza sauce
• Pepperoni slices
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, diced onions, and mushrooms until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are soft.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir, cooking for 30-45 seconds until fragrant. Drain any excess grease, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in the pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, and cooked pasta until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and additional pepperoni slices.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to turn golden brown.
• Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

  Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

• Can I add other toppings like olives or bell peppers?

  Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite pizza toppings.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?

  You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but rotini works well to hold the sauce and toppings.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

  You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve for a convenient meal.

• Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

  Yes, you can freeze leftovers for a quick and easy meal later on.
• Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of pasta?

  You can certainly use pizza dough as a base instead of pasta to create a pizza pasta bake.

• How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

  Simply omit the ground beef and pepperoni, and add more vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives.

• Can I use a homemade pizza sauce?

  Homemade pizza sauce can be used for a fresher and more personalized flavor profile.
• What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

  Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal anytime.

• Can I add extra cheese on top?

  Feel free to add as much cheese as you like to customize the cheesiness of your dish.

Helpful tips:

• Top the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or parmesan for added flavor.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
• For a creamy twist, mix in a bit of cream cheese or ricotta cheese before baking.
• Try adding cooked Italian sausage or bacon for a meatier option.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
• Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the other ingredients.
• Double the recipe and freeze half for a future meal prep option.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the ground beef in batches for better browning and flavor development.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust the seasonings to your preference by tasting and adding more as needed.
• Use a combination of fresh and dried herbs for a more complex flavor profile.
• Sprinkle a bit of sugar or honey in the sauce to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• For a crispier topping, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking.
• Get creative with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
• Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.
• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping for an extra burst of flavor.
• Experiment with different types of meats like chicken or sausage for a protein-packed variation.