Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 6 oz sliced pepperoni
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 16 oz rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente
  • 24 oz marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium high heat until no pink remains. Drain the excess fat so your dish isn't oily.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 60 seconds until it smells fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned beef, pizza sauce, oregano, and water or beef broth. Fold gently until every noodle is coated in the sauce.
  4. Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  5. Layer pepperoni slices evenly across the top, making sure they cover most of the surface.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the pepperoni.
  7. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese layer to ensure a gold brown finish.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set.