Lovers Pizza Casserole: A Cozy, Cheesy Dinner for Two”

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, crumble the sausage into the pan and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess grease and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine.
Combine the ingredients:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until everything is well mixed and evenly coated with sauce.
Assemble the casserole:

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the pepperoni slices on top in a single layer.
Bake the casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your cheese extra golden, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Serve and enjoy:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, if desired, for an extra burst of freshness.
Serving and Storage Tips: