Description
A hearty, cheesy pizza-inspired casserole loaded with pepperoni, sausage, beef, and melted mozzarella, baked with pasta and rich tomato sauce for an easy comfort-food dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cooked rotini or penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce, pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked bacon or ham for extra meat flavor.
- Use whole-wheat pasta for added fiber.
- This casserole freezes well for make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American