**Pizza Casserole Recipe**

**Ingredients:**

– **1 lb (450g) ground beef** or Italian sausage
– **1 package (12 oz or 340g) pepperoni slices**
– **2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese**
– **1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese**
– **1 jar (24 oz or 680g) marinara or pizza sauce**
– **1 can (15 oz or 425g) diced tomatoes** (drained)
– **3 cups (300g) cooked pasta** (penne or rotini works well)
– **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning**
– **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon onion powder**
– **Salt and pepper to taste**
– **Grated Parmesan cheese** for topping

 **Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C).

2. **Cook the pasta** according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.

3. **Brown the ground beef or sausage** in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. **Add the marinara or pizza sauce** to the browned meat along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

5. **In a large mixing bowl, combine** the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix well.

6. **Pour the pasta mixture** into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.

7. **Layer half of the pepperoni slices** on top of the pasta mixture.

8. **Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese** evenly over the pepperoni.

9. **Add a final layer of pepperoni slices** on top of the cheese.

10. **Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese** on top, followed by a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese.

11. **Cover the casserole with aluminum foil** and bake for 20 minutes.

12. **Remove the foil** and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

13. **Let the casserole rest** for a few minutes before serving.

**Optional:**

– You can add other pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or olives.
– Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Enjoy your delicious pizza casserole!