Ingredients
FOR THE CASSEROLE:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
FOR THE TOPPING:
1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish
Preparation
Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole:
Contents
1. PREHEAT THE OVEN
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. COOK THE PASTA
Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. SAUTÉ THE BEEF AND VEGETABLES
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). If using, toss in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. ADD THE SAUCE
Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the beef sauce. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese.
Continued on the next page
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