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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set it aside. It’s best to slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven during baking.
#### Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
1. **Cook the Beef**: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add Vegetables**: Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. **Season the Meat**: Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the mixture. If you like, you can add a bit of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
1. **Combine with Sauce**: Stir in the marinara sauce (or pizza sauce) into the beef and vegetable mixture, making sure it’s well combined. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors together.
2. **Mix with Pasta**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce.
3. **Add Cheese**: Fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, saving a small amount of each for topping the casserole later.
#### Step 4: Bake the Casserole
1. **Transfer to a Baking Dish**: Pour the pasta and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
2. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
3. **Bake**: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you like your cheese extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. **Garnish**: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor.
2. **Serve**: Slice and serve the casserole hot! It’s great on its own or paired with a side salad and garlic bread for a full meal.
### Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole:
– **Customize Your Toppings**: This casserole is incredibly versatile, so feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings. Mushrooms, olives, or even anchovies can easily be incorporated into the mix.
– **Make It Ahead**: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
– **Make It Spicy**: For those who like a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños, hot sausage, or extra red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
– **Vegetarian Version**: To make this a vegetarian casserole, simply omit the beef and replace it with additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
### Conclusion:
**Cheesy Beef Pizza Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food that combines the deliciousness of pizza with the ease of a casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its hearty ingredients, gooey cheese, and bold flavors, it brings the best of both worlds in one simple, satisfying meal. Try this recipe today, and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your recipe collection!
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