Pasta Pizza Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta 2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. Drain well.

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up as it browns for 5-7 minutes.

Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms, cooking for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.

Pour marinara sauce into meat and vegetable mixture. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine pasta with sauce mixture. Transfer half to a greased 9x13 baking dish, sprinkle with half the cheese, then repeat layers.

Arrange pepperoni slices across the top of the casserole, slightly overlapping.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for final 2 minutes if desired.

Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh basil.