Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for flavour)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup or 75g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 jar (24 oz / 680g) marinara sauce or pizza sauce
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup (115g) sliced pepperoni (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400g) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands!)
  • 2 cups (340g) cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favourite)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce to the beef mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
  4. If using biscuit dough: Separate biscuits and flatten them slightly. Arrange them evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly.
  5. If using cooked pasta: Spread the cooked pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Spread half of the beef mixture over the biscuit or pasta base.
  7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese (if using) over the beef.
  8. Add pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese (if using).
  9. Top with the remaining beef mixture, then the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The biscuit base should be cooked through (if using).
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.