Delicious Pizza Breadstick Casserole served in a baking dish

Pizza Breadstick Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Pizza Breadstick Casserole is a fun and tasty dish that combines two beloved favorites: pizza and breadsticks. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delightful that the whole family will enjoy. This dish has all the delicious flavors of pizza in an easy-to-make casserole, making it a hit at any dinner table.

How to Make Pizza Breadstick Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup diced pepperoni
  • 1 container refrigerated breadstick dough (like Pillsbury Garlic Breadsticks)
  • 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a bowl, combine the drained ground beef, marinara sauce, and diced pepperoni.
  3. Spoon the beef mixture into the baking dish.
  4. Unroll the breadstick dough and separate it into perforated sticks. Cut each stick into thirds.
  5. Evenly arrange the dough pieces over the ground beef mixture until no mixture is showing.
  6. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese on top.
  8. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the breadsticks are browned, the cheese is melty, and the sauce is bubbly.

How to Serve Pizza Breadstick Casserole

Pizza Breadstick Casserole can be served hot directly from the oven. It’s great on its own, or you can add a fresh salad or some garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. Make sure to let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns from the hot cheese.

How to Store Pizza Breadstick Casserole

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to eat them within three to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Tips to Make Pizza Breadstick Casserole

  • You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage to change up the flavor.
  • Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
  • To make it even cheesier, mix in some mozzarella cheese along with the Colby Jack.

Variation

For a meatless version, you can skip the ground beef and add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers instead. You can also use a different type of cheese if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes! You can use pizza sauce, alfredo sauce, or any pasta sauce you enjoy.

2. How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 25 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.

3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Pizza Breadstick Casserole with family and friends!