Pizza Casserole

This oven-baked dish brings all the flavors of a classic pizza into a comforting casserole. Layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, zesty sauce, and melty cheese make it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 ½ cups tomato-based pizza sauce
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 4 oz sliced pepperoni or diced Italian sausage
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (or more, as desired)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 12 x 8-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the mixture with garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir in pizza sauce and simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
4. Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and fold into the meat and sauce mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Arrange pepperoni evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Serve warm.