Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
1/2 cup cooked bacon pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 (24 oz) jar of pizza sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, Italian sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat and sauce mixture. Add the pepperoni slices and bacon pieces, stirring to combine everything evenly.
Layer in Baking Dish: Spread half of the pasta and meat mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the mixture. Add the remaining pasta and meat mixture on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese over it.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional pepperoni slices if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole!
