Pizza Pasta Bake

Why choose between pasta night and pizza night when you can have the best of both worlds? This irresistible pasta bake combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the convenience of a hearty pasta dish. By blending crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, we achieved a smooth-textured sauce reminiscent of traditional pizza sauce. Sausage and pepperoni bring the signature salty and meaty taste we love, while sliced mushrooms add balance and depth to the dish. Layered with shredded mozzarella and topped with pepperoni, this pasta bake truly captures the essence of a delicious pizza. With simple preparation and bold flavors, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy both pasta and pizza cravings.

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 ounces white mushrooms, trimmed and sliced thin
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 12 ounces (3 cups) macaroni
• 1 pound hot or sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or ¼ teaspoon dried
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 garlic cloves, minced)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 8 ounces of mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups)
• 2 ounces thinly sliced deli pepperoni

PREPARATIONS:

1. Toss the sliced mushrooms with olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Microwave, uncovered, until the mushrooms are softened and release liquid, for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the mushrooms and let them cool slightly.
2. Grease a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with vegetable oil spray. Spread the macaroni evenly into the prepared dish. Crumble the Italian sausage into ½-inch pieces over the top of the macaroni. Sprinkle with the sliced mushrooms.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, water, tomato sauce, minced oregano, garlic powder (or minced garlic), red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
4. Pour the tomato mixture into the baking dish and toss gently with tongs to combine. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir the pasta thoroughly, scraping the sides and bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta, then layer the thinly sliced pepperoni on top.
6. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking until the pasta is al dente and the cheese is melted, for 5 to 8 minutes.
7. Let the pasta bake cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

YIELD:

• This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Crumble the sausage into pieces that measure ½ inch or smaller.
• Drain the mushrooms after microwaving to remove excess liquid.

TIPS:

• Customize the heat level by using hot or sweet Italian sausage according to your preference.
• Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings such as sliced olives or bell peppers.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

In conclusion, this pizza-inspired pasta bake is a delightful combination of two beloved comfort foods. With sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese, every bite is packed with the bold flavors of a delicious pizza. The smooth tomato sauce, infused with oregano and garlic, ties all the ingredients together. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this pasta bake is sure to impress. It’s an easy and convenient way to enjoy the best elements of pizza and pasta in one satisfying dish.