Description
This Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Bake is a hearty, layered casserole packed with ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni baked in a rich tomato sauce with melted cheese — the perfect comfort food for pizza and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz cooked penne or rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and sausage, breaking them apart as they cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then half of the pepperoni slices.
- Repeat layers with remaining pasta, cheese, and pepperoni on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground beef or sausage with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
- Use ziti, rigatoni, or any short pasta shape you prefer.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian