1-First Step: Cook the Pasta Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and adding the 1 (12-ounce) package bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and return it to the pot to keep it warm this step ensures the pasta holds its shape when mixed with other ingredients later.

2-Second Step: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish While the pasta cooks, set your oven to 350°F and grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking this makes cleanup easier and helps the casserole release perfectly after baking. This preparation sets the stage for a seamless assembly.

3-Third Step: Brown the Meats and Veggies In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 pound ground beef, 1 pound ground Italian sausage, and 1 small chopped onion. Cook them together until the meats are no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, toss in the 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute to release their aroma for a twist, you could add veggies like bell peppers if you’re adapting for dietary preferences.

4-Fourth Step: Mix in the Sauces and Cheeses Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the 1 (14-ounce) jar pizza sauce, 1 (3.5-ounce) package pepperoni, 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup, and 1 (8-ounce) package shredded Italian cheese blend. Let this mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors, making it easy to customize with less salt if needed for a lower-sodium option.

5-Fifth Step: Combine Everything Now, mix the meat and sauce combination with the cooked pasta in the pot, adding 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste. Stir well to coat everything evenly this is where the cheesy pizza casserole really comes together, and you can adjust for gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference.

6-Sixth Step: Assemble and Bake Pour the whole mixture into your prepared baking dish and top it with the 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For variations, consider adding extra toppings before baking to suit different tastes. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes to set.

7-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Take the cheesy pizza casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving it slices better this way and stays hot. This dish serves about six people, making it great for family meals, and leftovers can be stored for later. For a fun pairing, try it with a refreshing Brazilian lemonade recipe from our site to balance the richness.