Introduction

Get ready for a family favorite with this Ultimate Loaded Spaghetti Pizza Casserole Recipe. It combines the best of two beloved comfort foods into one hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this easy casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you love pasta bakes, you might also enjoy this Christmas Lasagna Recipe or this Easy Ground Beef and Parmesan Tortellini Recipe.

Ingredients

This Loaded Pizza Spaghetti combines the savory, cheesy goodness of a supreme pizza with the comforting texture of pasta, creating a hearty and irresistible family meal.

• 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces, cooked al dente, cooled
• 2 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground Italian sausage)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 ounces sliced pepperoni (about 35 slices)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Loaded Pizza Spaghetti recipe is ready in about 40 minutes, roughly 20% faster than similar casserole-style recipes that require separate dough prep or longer baking times.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. This texture is key, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when baked later.

Step 2 — Brown the Meat

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains and it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. For a richer flavor, drain most of the fat but leave about a tablespoon in the pan.

Step 3 — Build the Sauce

Add your favorite jarred pizza or marinara sauce to the skillet with the browned meat. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For an extra pizza-parlor taste, stir in a teaspoon of dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4 — Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the cooked spaghetti well and return it to the pot. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and toss thoroughly until every strand is evenly coated. This ensures every bite of your Loaded Pizza Spaghetti is flavorful.

Step 5 — Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the saucy spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, then scatter your favorite pizza toppings like sliced pepperoni, diced bell peppers, black olives, or mushrooms over the cheese.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to develop golden spots. The edges should be lightly browned and the center hot.

Step 7 — Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the layers to set for cleaner slicing. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving your ultimate Loaded Pizza Spaghetti.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~28 g
Carbohydrates	~52 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~980 mg

Note: These are approximate values for one serving of Loaded Pizza Spaghetti, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

This Loaded Pizza Spaghetti recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing the classic pizza flavor.

• Leaner Protein — Swap regular ground beef for 93% lean beef, ground turkey, or plant-based crumbles. This reduces fat while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
• Lower-Carb Base — Use spiralized zucchini (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles instead of traditional pasta. These options significantly cut carbs and add extra veggies.
• Dairy-Free Cheese — Opt for a high-quality, meltable dairy-free mozzarella shred. Many brands now offer convincing flavor and texture that mimics the real thing.
• Gluten-Free Pasta — Choose a brown rice, lentil, or chickpea pasta. These provide a similar texture to wheat spaghetti and often add a boost of protein and fiber.
• Low-Sodium Sauce — Use a no-salt-added tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes and season it yourself with garlic, oregano, and basil. This gives you complete control over the salt content.
• Boost Veggies — Stir finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the meat sauce. They add nutrients, volume, and flavor without being overpowering.
• Lighter Pepperoni — Look for turkey pepperoni or a lower-fat variety. You can also omit it and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the sauce for that signature smoky note.
• Whole Wheat Pasta — For a fiber-rich alternative, use whole wheat or whole grain spaghetti. It has a nuttier flavor and makes the meal more filling.

Serving Suggestions

This Loaded Pizza Spaghetti is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that stands on its own but can be elevated with the right pairings and presentation. Here are ideas to make your meal complete.

• Perfect Pairings: Balance the richness with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. For a classic pizza night feel, serve with garlic knots or breadsticks.
• Ideal Occasions: This is the ultimate comfort food for game day gatherings, family movie nights, or casual potlucks. It’s also a fantastic solution for feeding a hungry crowd of kids and teens.
• Plating & Presentation: For a fun, family-style vibe, serve the Loaded Pizza Spaghetti directly from the skillet. For individual plates, use a large spoon to twirl the spaghetti into nests and top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.
• Make it a Feast: Create a “pasta bar” by offering small bowls of additional toppings like sliced olives, pepperoncini, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan so everyone can customize their bowl.
• Leftover Magic: Any leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch. You can also press cooled portions into a waffle iron for a crispy pasta waffle, or use it as a filling for toasted sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw, watery vegetables like mushrooms or peppers. Fix: Sauté them first to release moisture and concentrate flavor, preventing a soggy casserole.
• Mistake: Overcooking the spaghetti until it’s mushy. Fix: Cook it al dente (1-2 minutes less than package directions) so it holds up during baking.
• Mistake: Choosing a low-moisture, quick-melt cheese like pre-shredded blends. Fix: Use a mix of block mozzarella (for stretch) and sharp cheddar (for flavor), grating it yourself.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the meat and sauce adequately. Fix: Generously season your ground beef with Italian herbs, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes while browning.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of draining excess grease from cooked meat. Fix: Drain the beef thoroughly in a colander to avoid a greasy, separated sauce.
• Mistake: Using a thin, runny pizza or marinara sauce. Fix: Opt for a thick, robust sauce or simmer yours to reduce it, ensuring the loaded pizza spaghetti sets properly.
• Mistake: Adding cold toppings directly from the fridge before baking. Fix: Let items like pepperoni and cheese sit at room temperature for 20 minutes for more even melting.
• Mistake: Overloading the dish with too many wet ingredients. Fix: Balance high-moisture items (like olives) with drier ones (like crispy bacon bits).
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest after baking. Fix: Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes so the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Loaded Pizza Spaghetti completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat thoroughly in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Proper storage keeps this comforting casserole tasting fresh and delicious for your next easy meal.

Conclusion

This Loaded Pizza Spaghetti casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the best of two beloved dishes. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. We hope you love this hearty recipe! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below. For more indulgent pasta bakes, check out our Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta Recipe or Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this Loaded Pizza Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Loaded Pizza Spaghetti casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it, then add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you are ready to cook it. This makes it a perfect dish for easy meal prep.

What are the best toppings for Loaded Pizza Spaghetti?

Classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, black olives, and mushrooms work perfectly. For the ultimate Loaded Pizza Spaghetti, add your favorite cooked Italian sausage or crumbled hamburger along with extra cheese on top before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any similar pasta shape like linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. The key is to slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when baked in the casserole with the other ingredients.