Johnny Marzetti Casserole

Ingredients:

 1 pound ground beef

  1 onion, chopped

  2 cloves garlic, minced

  1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

  1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

  1 teaspoon dried oregano

  1/2 teaspoon dried basil

  Salt and pepper to taste

  1 pound elbow macaroni

  2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  Cook the macaroni: While the sauce is simmering, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  Assemble the casserole: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine.

  Bake the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

  Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  Serve: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips:

  You can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.

  For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

  You can use other types of pasta, such as penne or rotini.

  If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can use another type of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Enjoy!