Pizza Pasta Casserole Freezer

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.

4. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

5. Stir in the pizza sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly.

7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.

8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the casserole. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top in a single layer.

9. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

11. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

12. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired, before serving.