Menu Monday

The one dish wonder is sure to become a classic in your home. Everyone loves pizza night, and this is a way to "fancy it up" a bit. We love this casserole at our house and there are many variations of it, but this one has always been a pleaser!

PIZZA CASSEROLE
Prep 25-30 min Bake 30 min Serves 4

1 cup and 2 tablespoons uncooked egg noodles
5 ounces lean ground beef
5/8 onion, chopped
1-1/8 cloves garlic, minced
5/8 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup and 1 tablespoon sliced pepperoni sausage
9 ounces pizza sauce
2 tablespoons and 3/4 teaspoon milk
1/2 cup and 1 tablespoon shredded mozzarella cheese

PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees F.
COOK noodles according to package directions. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the onion, garlic and green bell pepper.
DRAIN excess fat. Stir in the noodles, pepperoni, pizza sauce and milk, and mix well.
POUR this mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
BAKE at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 20 minutes, top with the cheese, then bake for 5 to 10 more minutes.

TIPS:
*Egg noodles are really soft, so if you want to add more of a chew and heartiness, try a differnet style noodle.
*Try ground turkey and turkey pepperoni to give this dish a healthier side.
*They now sell mini pepperonis, try these in the dish and to decorate the top to give it extra appeal if bringing to a party :)
*You can substitue any veggie or other addition you would like. If you are not a big bell pepper fan, try black olives
*For a little extra flavor, buy Italian blend cheese instead of just mozzarella
*Pair this meal with garlic breadsticks to make it complete!


ENJOY!!

~**~Nicole~**~