Loaded Pizza Pasta Casserole (Print Format)
A hearty bake with sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal.
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
→ Sauce and Dairy
02 -
2 cups pasta sauce
03 -
1/2 cup cream
04 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, divided
05 -
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Meats
06 -
8 oz bulk Italian sausage, any flavor
07 -
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni, halved
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
08 -
1/2 cup thickly sliced fresh mushrooms
09 -
2 tbsp chopped onion
10 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
11 -
1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
→ Herbs and Spices
12 -
1/2 tsp oregano
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish. Cook pasta according to package directions; rinse and drain.
02 -
In a heavy skillet, brown Italian sausage, chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
03 -
In a large bowl, blend pasta sauce, cream, oregano, and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese until smooth.
04 -
Incorporate the browned sausage mixture, halved pepperoni, and sliced olives into the sauce. Stir to combine thoroughly.
05 -
Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
06 -
Remove foil and evenly top casserole with shredded mozzarella and the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan or Romano cheese. Return to oven and bake 10 to 15 minutes until cheese melts and begins to brown.
# Tips:
01 -
Use any shaped pasta such as rotini, gemelli, or penne if elbow pasta is unavailable.