Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 6–8

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage , casings removed (sweet or spicy, your choice)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta , cooked al dente
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni , chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh basil , chopped
• Red pepper flakes , for heat
• Extra pepperoni slices , for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and return the meat to the skillet.
2. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly across the bottom.
2. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the chopped pepperoni and half of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
3. Repeat the layers: remaining pasta, meat sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella. Finish by sprinkling the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or extra pepperoni slices if desired.