Pizza Pasta

Pizza Pasta combines the delicious flavors of pizza with the comfort of pasta, creating a fun and hearty dish. Here’s a simple recipe to make Pizza Pasta:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
6. Add Cheese:
   • Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the pizza pasta to a baking dish (if desired) or serve directly from the skillet. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
   • (Optional) Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Tips:

• Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms, to the dish.
• Cheese variations: You can mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the meat with veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

This Pizza Pasta is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a pasta dish! Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or variations!