Weekend Pizza Casserole With Scoobi Doo Pasta

A Pizza Casserole with Scoobi Doo Pasta is a fun and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic pizza with the heartiness of a baked pasta casserole. Scoobi Doo pasta (also known as Cavatappi) has a spiral shape that holds onto sauce beautifully, making it perfect for this recipe. Here’s how you can make a unique pizza-inspired casserole with Scoobi Doo pasta:

Pizza Casserole with Scoobi Doo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 oz Scoobi Doo (Cavatappi) pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
• 1 cup pepperoni slices (or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup mini meatballs (optional, or replace with more sausage/pepperoni)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• Fresh basil (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Scoobi Doo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage and set aside.
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
   • Stir the sausage back into the vegetable mixture.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Add the marinara or pizza sauce and tomato paste to the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
   • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding the crushed red pepper flakes for heat, if desired.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Scoobi Doo pasta with the sausage-vegetable-sauce mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta.
   • Add half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir to combine.
   • Grease a large baking dish (9×13 inches or similar) and pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top with Pizza Toppings:
   • Arrange the pepperoni slices, mini meatballs (if using), black olives (if using), and any additional toppings you like on top of the pasta mixture.
   • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve warm.

This Pizza Casserole with Scoobi Doo Pasta is packed with all your favorite pizza flavors—savory sausage, melted cheese, pepperoni, and a rich tomato sauce—but in a fun, baked pasta format. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a family meal or a cozy weekend lunch! —Vita Daily