Combining the best of two beloved classics—pizza and spaghetti—this recipe creates a deliciously satisfying dish perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a cozy night at home. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 8 oz spaghetti: Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make it homemade for a personal touch.
Toppings:
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: For that gooey, cheesy top.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: Add a zesty kick.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: For hearty, savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced: Red, green, or yellow for a pop of color and crunch.
- 1/2 cup onions, diced: Sweet or red onions add depth to the dish.
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced: Optional, but they bring a tangy touch.
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and rosemary ties it all together.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a subtle spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your liking.
Additional:
- Olive oil: To grease your baking dish and prevent sticking.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the pizza sauce, cooked Italian sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and a layer of pepperoni slices.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the cheese, more pepperoni slices, and a sprinkle of black olives.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for a Custom Creation:
- Switch Up the Toppings: Love mushrooms, ham, or spinach? Go ahead and personalize it with your favorite pizza toppings!
- Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Try adding a mix of cheddar and parmesan for a more complex cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
This Pizza Spaghetti is the best of both worlds—a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and bursting with flavors everyone loves. Bon appétit!