Cheesy Deluxe Pizza Pasta

Step 1

Cut 1/2 the pepperoni slices into 4 pieces, set aside.

Step 2

Heat a dutch oven or deep pot over MED HIGH heat.  Add drizzle of olive oil and brown Italian sausage, crumbling it with a wooden spoon or potato masher as it cooks, about 4-5 minutes.  Drain excess grease and return to pan.

Step 3

Add cut pepperoni pieces, diced onion, and diced green pepper, and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.  Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in marinara sauce, oregano and basil.  Add water, stir and bring to a boil over HIGH heat.  When boiling, add pasta, stir, reduce to a simmer, cover with lid and simmer about 12-15 minutes, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is gone.

Step 5

Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, remove from heat.  Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.  Sprinkle top with remaining mozzarella, and lay remaining slices of pepperoni on top.

Step 6

Broil on HIGH for 1-3 minutes, until cheese is bubbly, melted and slightly golden.  Serve garnished with minced parsley or basil.