Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 large jar of pizza sauce (about 24-28 oz)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini are good choices)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- Sliced pepperoni (enough to cover the top layer)
- Garlic bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Add 1 large jar of pizza sauce to the browned sausage. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine with pasta:
- Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is evenly coated with the sauce and sausage mixture.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta and sauce mixture as the next layer.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and arrange the pepperoni slices over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve your Pizza Pasta Bake with garlic bread on the side.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, black olives, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving for more cheesy goodness.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Pizza Pasta Bake!