Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can pizza sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the pepperoni slices on top.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the pepperoni and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
#PizzaCasserole #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #FamilyFavorites #CheesyGoodness #PastaRecipes #QuickMeals #PepperoniLovers #HomemadePizza #CasseroleDishes #DeliciousEats #FoodBlogger #ItalianCuisine #OnePotMeals #DinnerInspo