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Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz (about 3 cups) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
1/2 cup water (to loosen the sauce)
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
20-25 slices pepperoni
1/2 tsp dried oregano (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Meat and Vegetables
In a large pan, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned.
Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix the Sauce and Pasta
Add the marinara sauce, water, and sugar to the meat mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and mix until well coated with the sauce.
Assemble the Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking dish with aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup).
Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
Bake
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you like crispy pepperoni, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the baked pizza pasta cool for a few minutes.
Sprinkle with dried oregano for extra flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy!
