Pizza in a casserole doesn't get any easier. With all the flavor of a pizza pie, this super easy main dish is perfect for those Friday nights when you want pizza but don't want to spend money (or calories and fat) on takeout.
This recipe uses the microwave to keep it as simple as possible. Making any casserole in the microwave may sound ridiculous to you, but we promise it turns out great. Plus, it makes this recipe suitable even for the hottest days of the year, when you don't want to run the oven.
Feel free to swap out ingredients as you desire to reflect your pizza toppings of choice. For example, you might elect to remove the pepperoni and add sausage instead. Cooking times may need to be adjusted, depending on the substitutions you make.
The easiest change to make is with the cheese. We use Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta, but you can use whatever cheeses you want. If you want to reduce the calories in this dish, use low- or reduced-fat cheese instead of regular cheese. The taste will still be great!
Pizza Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
6 ounce package shell macaroni, cooked
8 ounce jar pizza sauce
8 ounce carton ricotta cheese
4 ounce package shredded mozzarella cheese
4 ounce package sliced pepperoni, halved
½ cup onion, chopped
½ teaspoon dried basil
1 Tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
1. In a 2 quart microwave-safe dish, combine all ingredients except Parmesan cheese. Blend well.
2. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over top, cover and microwave on high for 7 to 9 minutes. Makes 4 servings.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/Azurita.