Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup (240ml) pizza sauce
  • 2 cups (200g) cooked pasta (like penne or rotini)
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1/2 cup (70g) sliced black olives
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Additional toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
  3. Drain excess fat, then stir in pizza sauce, oregano, and garlic powder. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, bell pepper, olives, and half the mozzarella cheese.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Look for a golden-brown cheese layer.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.