Pizzagna layers the familiar structure of lasagna with pepperoni and oregano for a pizza-inspired casserole. Ground beef, onion, mushrooms, marinara, ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and pasta build substantial layers under a bubbling golden top.
The recipe makes eight large portions. Preparation takes 20 minutes, cooking takes 80 minutes, and the listed total is 100 minutes. Brown the meat and vegetables for 8–10 minutes, simmer the sauce 5 minutes, then bake at 375°F for 35 minutes covered and 10 minutes uncovered before resting.
Pizzagna Ingredients
For the meat sauce, use 1 lb ground beef, one 32 oz jar marinara, 1 cup sliced pepperoni, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add ½ medium diced onion and 8 oz sliced fresh mushrooms.
The pasta and cheese layers require 1 lb lasagna noodles, 2 cups ricotta, 3 cups shredded mozzarella, 1 cup grated Parmesan, and 2 large eggs. Season with 1 tablespoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper, then garnish with parsley.
If you enjoy this recipe, you may also like Cheesy Hamburger Casserole.
How to Make Pizzagna
- Heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook beef, onion, and mushrooms for 8–10 minutes until browned and tender; drain excess grease.
- Lower to medium, stir in oregano, marinara, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and simmer 5 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, drain, and rinse with cold water.
- Mix ricotta, Parmesan, and two eggs until smooth; season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 dish. Layer sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, pepperoni, and more sauce, repeating and ending with cheese.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake 35 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 minutes more. Rest 10–15 minutes and garnish with parsley.
For storage details after serving, the USDA leftovers and food safety guidance.
Brown Beef, Onion, and Mushrooms
Simmer the Pizza-Style Meat Sauce
Cook One Pound of Lasagna Noodles
Mix Ricotta, Parmesan, and Two Eggs
Preheat and Grease the Dish
Build the First Layer
Repeat and End with Cheese
Bake Covered for Thirty-Five Minutes
Uncover, Brown, and Rest
Make-Ahead and Leftover Guidance
Conclusion
Brown beef, onion, and mushrooms in olive oil for 8–10 minutes and drain. Add oregano, marinara, seasonings, and red pepper flakes; simmer 5 minutes. Cook 1 lb noodles al dente and mix ricotta, Parmesan, and two eggs. At 375°F, layer sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, pepperoni, and sauce in a greased 9x13 dish. Cover and bake 35 minutes, uncover for 10 minutes, then rest 10–15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is pizzagna?
It is a lasagna-style casserole layered with pizza flavors including pepperoni, marinara, oregano, and mozzarella.
- → How long does pizzagna bake?
Bake it at 375°F for 35 minutes covered, then 10 minutes uncovered.
- → Why must it rest before cutting?
A 10–15 minute rest lets the sauce and cheese settle so the layers hold together.
- → Can I assemble pizzagna ahead?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate it up to one day before baking.