Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• ½ cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp cream cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the meat – In a skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Mix in sauce – Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and cream cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Layer the casserole – Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Add toppings – Layer with bell peppers, mushrooms, and pepperoni slices. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve & enjoy! Garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.