{ Cooking Thursday - Pepperoni Pizzaz }

 

PEPPERONI PIZZAZ
Credit: Tried and True Cooking with Heidi

8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
1 jar (28 ounces) spaghetti sauce, divided
1 package (8 ounces) sliced pepperoni
1 jar (4-1/2 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese



Cook pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, combine 2-1/3 cups spaghetti sauce, pepperoni, mushrooms, green pepper, onion,

Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
Drain pasta; add to sauce mixture and mix well.

Transfer to a greased 3-qt. baking dish. Combine the tomato sauce and remaining spaghetti sauce; pour over top. (Note: for easier clean up, just empty the tomato sauce into the remaining spaghetti sauce jar, close tight and shake)

Cover and bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake, uncovered, 5-10 longer or until cheese is melted. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Yield: 9 servings.