Game Time!: Tailgate Pepperoni Casserole

Tailgate Pepperoni Casserole

This casserole is packed full of your favorite pizza flavors.  Men love this casserole while watching the game at home, but it is also ideal for a family supper. You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and put it in the oven for just 20 minutes and have a hearty and quick meal served with a crisp green salad.

8 -12 ounces whole grain pasta (penne or rotini), cooked

½ pound bulk sausage or ground beef

1/3 cup chopped onion

1/3 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

24 ounces spaghetti or pizza sauce

21/2 cups (10 ounces) shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Monterey, etc.)

3 ounces sliced pepperoni

In a large skillet, cook the sausage until no longer pink.  Add the onion and mushrooms and cook an additional 5 minutes.  Stir in the sauce and bring to a boil.  Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered for 5 minutes.  To the skillet, add the cooked pasta and stir.  Transfer the pasta mixture to a 13 X 9 casserole dish coated with cooking spray.  Sprinkle the cheese on top and place the pepperoni.  Bake, uncovered at 350 for 20 minutes.  Let the casserole stand 5 minutes before serving.  Serves 6-8.