Pizza Pasta Bake with Sausage

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. 2

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until just barely pink. Add the bell pepper and onion, continuing to cook until the meat is fully cooked through. Stir in the pepperoni, olives, cream cheese, and tomato sauce. Reduce heat to low and stir until the cream cheese melts and everything is warmed through.

4. 4

   Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the sausage mixture over the pasta and toss until evenly coated.

5. 5

   Spread half the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Scatter half the mozzarella on top, then layer on the remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the mozzarella. Dust with Italian seasoning and arrange a few extra pepperoni slices on top if desired.

6. 6

   Bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the dish is heated through.