A delicious and hearty pasta bake featuring a blend of cheeses and savory meats, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
Adding a bit of olive oil to the boiling water can prevent the pasta from sticking.
In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, sausage, mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Add the cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and salsa to the meat mixture. Stir well to combine.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheeses.
Layering the cheese ensures a gooey texture throughout the bake.
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
