- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Onion, Garlic, and Meat:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add Marinara and Herbs:
- To the skillet with the meat, stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix the cooked pasta into the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the pepperoni slices. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture, mozzarella, and pepperoni. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Add Optional Toppings:
- If desired, add additional toppings like sliced olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers over the top layer.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Serve the casserole with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Offer slices of warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the casserole.
This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a comforting, baked dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite pizza toppings, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy the delicious combination of melted cheese, tangy marinara, and spicy pepperoni in every bite!