Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 tsp (2 g) dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp (2 g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper into the sausage mixture. Add cooked pasta and mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Spread half of the noodle mixture into the greased baking dish. Layer with half of the mozzarella, followed by pepperoni. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  6. Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.