Delight in the flavors of Italy with our Baked Italian Casserole recipe! Experience layers of hearty pasta, savory ground beef, flavor-boosting vegetables, and a rich spaghetti sauce, all topped with melted cheese and pepperoni. Each bite is a comforting blend of Italian spices and textures, creating a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to please. Elevate your culinary repertoire and bring the taste of Italy to your table.
Baked Italian Casserole
Nutritional Information
Calories
416
Fats
23 g
Protein
24 g
Carbs
28 g
The flavors of spaghetti, pizza and lasagna all wrapped up into one simple dish. Serve this with a side salad and a piece of garlic bread for an easy weekday dinner. This is even good leftover for lunch.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta, uncooked
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/4 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 12 ounces spaghetti sauce
- 8 ounces cottage cheese
- 1 can (2.25 ounce) sliced black olives with jalapenos, drained
- 1 can (4 ounce) mushrooms, drained
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1/4 pound sliced pepperoni
Directions
1
Preheat oven to 350F.
2
Spray a 8X11 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3
Prepare rotini according to package directions until al dente, drain.
4
Brown the ground beef and onion until beef is no longer pink, drain grease.
5
Stir in the minced garlic and spaghetti sauce.
6
Toss in the prepared pasta until well coated with meat sauce.
7
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
8
In small bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, olives, mushrooms and mozzarella cheese.
9
Spoon the cheese mixture over the pasta/meat sauce mixture.
10
Top with evenly with pepperoni slices.
11
Bake uncovered, until cheese is melted and pepperoni's are lightly browned, about 25 minutes.
*** I added the onions, garlic and italian seasonings after I already photographed the ingredients.