Description
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining all the best flavors of pizza and pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef sauce, half of the pepperoni, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, and diced green bell pepper.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve.
Notes
- Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Add mushrooms, black olives, or other favorite pizza toppings.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.